The 17th annual Janice Franz Talent Show was held last week for beneficiary Tamara De LosReyes. Packed with music, dancing, and entertainment, the show raised approximately $12,000 according to ASB estimates.

This was the second year the Talent Show has had three nights. It was upped from two last year due to popular demand and increased turnouts. “It [The Talent Show] has gained such a large following,” said Head Coordinator Mary Rowles. “We just have such an abundant amount of talent at WHS.”

The theme this year was “All You Need Is Love.” According to Publicity Coordinator Devyn Blakney, “The theme is supposed to personify a sense of love and community.”

The Talent Show gets its name from former Wenatchee High School teacher, Janice Franz. When Franz was diagnosed with cancer, some students started the Talent Show to raise money. Before she passed, she encouraged the students to continue with the show, in order to raise funds for others in need of help.

It has persisted, and now in its 17th year, the show is still exciting the people and doing its job. This was voiced by guitarist Gabe Massey, who was in a group that performed Incubus’ song “Drive.”

“The prospect of playing in front of people is very exciting,” Massey said. “I know it sounds kind of obvious but it’s energizing.”

Altogether there were 18 acts, and quite a bit of buzz was generated. Decorations lined the hallways at WHS but still the amount raised was significantly less compared to 2013’s $19,000.

When asked about how the show compared to last year’s, Rowles said, “Although they’re the same event, there are so many things that differ from year to year. More money was raised last year, but it was for two beneficiaries. I would say it was definitely on par with years past.”