NEW ORLEANS (June 9, 2011) — The National World War II Museum is seeking the most talented singers from across the region to compete for a headlining spot in the Museum’s new Stage Door Canteen. The five-week competition will feature performances of the greatest hits of the war years for celebrity judges. The public is also invited to attend and cast their vote.

Preliminary auditions will be held on Saturday, June 11, 2011, 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm and Monday, June 13, 2011, 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm in the Stage Door Canteen. All contestants must attend a preliminary audition to advance to final rounds. They are asked to prepare a song that was written or recorded in the '40s. A Museum accompanist will be available but will require sheet music in the appropriate key. Contestants can also accompany themselves or go a capella. Contestants must be 17 years of age to participate.

Finalists will receive a “backstage pass” and an invitation to compete in one of four final rounds on July 12, July 19, July 26 and August 2, all from 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm in the Stage Door Canteen. The winner will be announced at the finale on August 16 and will get the opportunity to perform with the Museum’s Victory Six Swing Band as part of the Museum’s popular Sunday Swing series on August 28. All competition dates are free and open to the public. For more information, call 504-528-1944 x 267.

The National WWII Museum tells the story of the American Experience in the war that changed the world – why it was fought, how it was won, and what it means today. Dedicated in 2000 as The National D-Day Museum and designated by Congress as America’s National WWII Museum, it celebrates the American Spirit, the teamwork, optimism, courage and sacrifice of the men and women who fought on the battlefront and the Home Front. For more information, call 877-813-3329 or 504-527-6012 or visit www.nationalww2museum.org. Follow us on Twitter at WWIItoday or visit our Facebook fan page.