2026 Shine Your Light Youth Competition

Shine Your Light 7th annual Youth Vocal Competition
"USE YOUR VOICE. SHARE YOUR LIGHT"

Presented by the Ray of Light Foundation

in partnership with The Franklin Playhouse

RAYMOND'S LEGACY

A youth vocal competition created by a young man who believed every voice deserves to shine.

The Shine Your Light Youth Vocal Competition was created in 2019 by Raymond Marcial Cruz, who bravely fought Stage 4 Ewing-like Sarcoma from 2017–2019.

During his battle, Raymond shared hope through music wherever he could — from the hallways of Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital to the stage of the Ryman Auditorium. He believed music had the power to bring light and encouragement to others.

In 2019, Raymond and his mother, Blandina, created the Shine Your Light Youth Vocal Competition so young singers could share their voices while making a difference in the community.

Raymond was able to see the very first competition take place. One of his wishes was that the event would continue so that kids could keep sharing their gifts and shining their light.

Today, the competition welcomes talented youth vocalists from across Middle Tennessee to celebrate music, courage, and community.

Through the Ray of Light Foundation, the event continues Raymond’s legacy while supporting programs connected to Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital Palliative Care.

Every voice shared on stage continues Raymond’s message:

Use Your Voice. Share Your Light.

AUDITIONS NOW OPEN!

Shine Your Light Youth Vocal Competition

Presented by Ray of Light Foundation

Preliminary Auditions – Video Submission Only

We are so excited for you to share your voice and your light with us this year! Please read all instructions carefully before submitting.

*LIMITED SPOTS FOR FINALS.

Video auditions are now being accepted.

Submission Deadline: April 26

Youth vocalists are invited to submit a video audition to be considered for the competition.

Selected finalists will perform live at the Shine Your Light Youth Vocal Competition on May 16.

Who Can Participate

The competition welcomes young vocalists from across Middle Tennessee who love to sing and want to share their talent.

Students from school music programs, theatre programs, voice studios, and independent performers are all encouraged to audition.

If you have competed before and placed 1st in your age division, you may not compete in that age division and must wait to move into the next age division or you have aged out.

AUDITION REQUIREMENTS

Submit ONE song (maximum 2 minutes)
If your song is longer than 2 minutes, please perform a cut (portion) of the song
Song choice must be appropriate for all audiences (family-friendly)
Your audition song does NOT have to be the same song if selected for finals

HOW TO SUBMIT YOUR AUDITION

Record your audition video (phone videos are great!)
Upload your video to YouTube as UNLISTED
Copy your video link
Fill out the audition form (link will be provided) and paste your video link
We do not accept email or text submissions

Click Link for Audition form:

IMPORTANT SUBMISSION REQUIREMENT

To be considered, you must complete ALL THREE steps:

Submit your video (Link on form)

Complete the audition form

Submit your payment

If any of these are missing, your audition will not be reviewed.

REGISTRATION $35 FEE (Required make payment on Donate Botton)

Submit your audition fee through PayPal
In the notes/memo section, include:
- Child’s Name
- SYL

Example: “Emily Johnson – SYL”

Registration fee is non-refundable, even if not selected for finals

MUSIC TRACK GUIDELINES

Songs must be under 2 minutes
Use a pre-recorded track only (no live accompaniment)
Make sure your track is cut and ready to start
Audio should be clear and easy to hear

IMPORTANT RULES

Only one submission per participant
Video must clearly show the performer
No inappropriate language, costumes, or themes
Incomplete submissions will not be considered

FINAL NOTE

Relax, have fun, and give it your best we can’t wait to see you shine!

“3 steps. 2 minutes. 1 chance to shine.”

2026 Event Information

7th Annual Shine Your Light Youth Vocal Competition "FINALS"

May 16, 2026

5:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Park Place – Cool Springs

This year’s FINALS competition will be held outdoors, creating a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere for families and friends.

Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and or blankets. Enjoy an evening of music under the stars for a wonderful cause.

It will be a special night celebrating young talent, community, and Raymond’s legacy.

Outdoor Seating Information

This event will take place outdoors on the lawn with two seating options:

Reserved Lawn Seating (Front Section):

The front portion of the lawn will be reserved for guest who purchased tickets at $15. This section offers closer views and a "reserved" guaranteed space.

General Lawn Seating (Back Section):

The back portion of the lawn will be open for donation-based seating. Guest are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets. Suggested donation: $10 per person or $25 per family

About the Ray of Light Foundation

The Ray of Light Foundation was created in honor of Raymond Marcial Cruz. Through music and community events, the foundation continues Raymond’s mission of spreading hope, kindness, and encouragement to others.

Audition Form