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One performer, Jake Doolittle, has his eyes on the prize in the 12-and-under category.

Jake says that he will likely perform the classic "Hound Dog" by Elvis Presley.

"I thought that since I like Elvis Presley so much, I should do it," the young singer said.

Even at the ripe old age of 7, Jake is already a performer with experience.

In addition to several other roles, Jake has recently been involved in the Children's Theater of Maine's stage production of "Odd at Sea," performing as the pirate Slosh.

"I liked playing in it because I got to be really funny," Jake said.

A man of many talents, Jake performed in last year's Exeter Karaoke Idol under both the singing and dancing categories.

After taking the People's Choice Award last year for his dance moves, director Sandy Martin has asked him to come back for an encore performance.

Jake's mom, Tracy Doolittle, of South Portland, Maine, says that her son has been interested in performing for as long as she can remember.

"I remember when he was just a baby watching 'The Wiggles,' he would push himself up and dance along," Doolittle said. "When he was only three and a half, he entered into a singing contest and did 'Viva Las Vegas.' He really prefers to be on stage."

Jake's father, Kingston resident Brian Magnusson, says that his son grew up listening to classic rock 'n' roll hits.

"We would play Elvis for him because we didn't have to worry about any questionable lyrics," Magnusson said. "We're not sure where he got his talent from. He just loves to perform."

Jake already has several other dramatic roles lined up.

In the near future, he plans to be involved in productions of "Beauty and the Beast" and "Alice in Wonderland."

Is Jake starting to feel the butterflies in his stomach about the event?

Not for this talented youngster.

"I don't think I'm nervous," the young performer said.

Contestants in the competition will be judged on several factors, including vocals, originality, and relationship to the audience. Judging the contestants this year will be Sean Kenney; Miss New Hampshire competitor Alicia Rossman; Brina Rickerman; and Dr. Berton Dibble.

Contestants will compete for first place by age groups: 12 and under; 13 to 17; 18 to 29; 30-39; and 60 plus. Additional entertainment will be provided between performances by local dance troupes.

Following the performances, a VIP reception will take place at the Loaf and Ladle in Exeter. The reception will be a "meet and greet" opportunity for the public to meet their favorite entertainers from the competition.

Exeter resident Lynda Broadbent will be competing in the 60 plus category. The great-grandmother says that she was invited back to the competition after entering last year, and looks forward to the event.

"It's really a lot of fun," Broadbent said. "It's all for charity, so it's really great."

Broadbent plans on singing "From a Distance," a song made famous by Bette Midler.

"I feel that it is a very appropriate song for what's going on today in the world."

Broadbent mentions that her husband, Robert, has been very patient while she practices for the competition.

"I end up singing the song two or three times a day," Broadbent laughs. "I think my husband is getting a little of sick of it."

Originally from England, Broadbent says that her love of singing began when she performed with church choirs.

"I have always sung," Broadbent said. "Even when my husband was in the Navy and stationed around the world, I would continue to find groups to sing with."

Today, the experienced singer performs with the Funky Divas of Gospel, a local group whose members share their love of singing by providing "an uplifting and life-affirming message through traditional and contemporary spirit-filled music."

No matter how she places in the competition, Broadbent feels proud that she is helping just by being part of the event.

"This is benefiting hospice, food banks, and scholarships. It's really a good cause."