Returning to the Gallo Center for a second year, “Talento Vivo en el Valle!” is a high energy, entertaining talent competition open to Ballet Folklorico dance groups and Mariachi/Ranchera singers residing in Stanislaus, Merced, Tuolumne, Calaveras, Mariposa, and San Joaquin counties. Top prizes of $750 will be awarded to the winners of the Vocal and Dance categories, and one of them will automatically be selected to compete in the Gallo Center’s Valley Talent Project in August, with a chance to win that contest’s grand prize of $1,500. A panel of distinguished judges will select the “Talento Vivo en el Valle!” winners based on vocal technique and choreographic cultural authenticity, as well as overall showmanship and stage presence.