Contestants will perform up to three songs in three rounds of competition until a final elimination is made and Klondike Kate 2012 is chosen. 

 

The Klondike Kate hopefuls will be judged on musical performance, song choice, vocal abilities, costuming, crowd appeal, and authenticity in portraying the real-life character, Klondike Kate. 

 

In addition to the competition, the Klondike Kates are hosting a charity “Gold Rush” at Prom Center. Licensed appraisers will be on-site to accept old gold pieces and jewelry; appraise them at a competitive rate; and pay cash to guests on the spot. Profit proceeds will go to Memorial Blood Center. 

 

You must have a ticket to the Klondike Kate Contest to partake in the Gold Rush. 

 

WHEN: Wednesday, January 11, 2012 at 6:30 p.m. Doors open at 6 p.m. 

 

It is estimated that the new Kate will be announced around 9:45 p.m. 

 

WHERE: Prom Center, 484 Inwood Avenue North, Oakdale

 

INFO: Klondike Kate hotline:  651-289-KATE or www.klondikekates.org. 

 

TICKETS: $20 at the door, $17 with a Winter Carnival Button, $15 in advance 

 

HISTORY: She had beauty and charm, and she struck it rich in the Gold Rush of 1898 as the most famous dance hall girl in the north. 

 

She so charmed the legions of miners that they showered her with gold dust and nuggets, nicknaming her "Klondike Kate."  

In 1971, a contest was initiated for choosing a new Kate each year, but she became so in demand that past Klondike Kate Contest winners continue to perform to fulfill more performances.  She has since become Saint Paul's mistress of fun, frivolity, and good fellowship, and her role in the Saint Paul Winter Carnival Legend is to bring song, fun, and merriment to all activities.   

 

Today, the Klondike Kates make over 100 appearances each year, including singing live on their award-winning float in summer parades and many other engagements, all while pursuing full-time business careers.  

 

MORE: The 126th Winter Carnival will take place January 26 – February 5, 2011. 

 

For more information, please visit www.winter-carnival.com.