How to Host a Talent Show Party

A talent show party brings out hidden talents you never knew your friends had. From singing and dancing to magic tricks and comedy routines, everyone gets a chance to shine on stage while the audience plays judge.

Unlike traditional talent shows with appointed judges, a party format lets everyone vote.

Campfire Vote handles all the scoring complexity. Performers register their acts, everyone participates to rate each performance in real-time, and the app calculates final rankings instantly. You focus on the performances while the tech handles the competition.

Before the Show

1. Create your show in Campfire Vote — Log in as host and start a new Talent Show Party. Only you pay — guests join for free! You'll get a unique party code (and QR code) to share with your performers and audience.
2. Send invitations with act guidelines — Let guests know the time limit (3-5 minutes recommended), whether they need to bring props or music, and share the party code. Encourage them to think about their talent in advance. We like to use partiful.com for easy RSVPs.
3. Set up your stage — Clear a performance area, position your speaker, and set up any lighting. Test the sound system before guests arrive.

Show Kick Off

1. Everyone joins Campfire Vote — Have each guest join your show using the party code. Performers enter their stage name and performance title; observers just need a name.
2. Review the lineup — As host, you can see all registered acts. Decide on the performance order — mix up act types to keep energy varied.
3. Start with pre-show voting (optional) — Let judges rate how excited they are about each act based on the title alone. This creates fun “expectations vs. reality” comparisons at the end.

During the Show

1. Introduce each performer — As host (or MC), announce each act by stage name and performance title. Build some hype!
2. Set the current performer in the app — Use the host dashboard to mark who's on stage. This syncs across all devices so judges know who to rate.
3. Judges vote after each act — Give the audience 60 seconds to score after each performance.
4. Keep energy up between acts — Play music during transitions, give performers time to set up, and keep the crowd engaged.

The Big Reveal

1. Move to results phase — Once all performances are complete and scored, advance the show to results mode.
2. Build the suspense — Announce rankings from last to first. Share any “most improved” awards if pre-voting was enabled.
3. Crown your winner — Celebrate the top performer! Consider having a small trophy or prize ready.

Not sure what talent to showcase? Here are popular categories that work great at home talent shows:

• •Create a green room — Designate a separate space where performers can warm up, prep props, and manage nerves before their turn.
• •Have backup music ready — Create a playlist for transitions and technical difficulties. Silence is awkward; music keeps the energy flowing.
• •Encourage first-timers — Some guests may be nervous about performing. Remind everyone that the goal is fun, not perfection. Applause is mandatory!
• •Record the performances — Set up a phone or camera to capture acts. Performers love having a video to share, and it makes great memories.
• •End with a group moment — After announcing the winner, invite everyone on stage for a group bow or photo. It celebrates all participants, not just the winner.