Algona to Host Two Performing Arts Competitions

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Iowa Chapter of the National Society of Arts and Letters (NSAL) is hosting two upcoming performing arts competitions in Algona, Iowa. The 2026 Regional High Brass Competition will be held on March 14, with the top prize of $3,000 plus expenses paid to the national competition. The 2026 Regional Musical Theater Competition is scheduled for March 21, also offering a $3,000 top prize. The application deadlines are February 27 and February 20, respectively.

Why it matters

The NSAL provides financial assistance and career opportunities to promising young artists, helping to nurture the next generation of performers. These competitions in Algona offer a chance for local and regional talent to showcase their skills and potentially advance their careers.

The details

The competitions will both take place at the Wilcox Performing Arts Center in Algona. The high brass competition is open to brass musicians, while the musical theater competition is for singers, dancers, and actors. Winners will receive $3,000 prizes, with the high brass winner also earning an all-expenses-paid trip to the national competition.

• The 2026 Regional High Brass Competition will be held on March 14.
• The 2026 Regional Musical Theater Competition is scheduled for March 21.
• The application deadline for the high brass competition is February 27.
• The application deadline for the musical theater competition is February 20.

What’s next

The judges will select the winners of the high brass and musical theater competitions on March 14 and March 21, respectively. The winners will then advance to the national NSAL competitions.