After a three-year absence, the famed Piedmont Bird Calling Contest is set to return to the campus of Piedmont High School Thursday, March 30, 7:00pm, at the new Alan Harvey Theater. Under the theme of ‘Maskarade,’ guests are encouraged to show their creativity and personality through their masks – bird-themed or not.

Created in 1963, the Piedmont Bird Calling Contest grew into an annual event that over the decades has attracted attention both locally and nationally as winners have appeared on ‘The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson,’ and ‘Late Night with David Letterman.’ Recently, a former PHS student and participant demonstrated her skills on ‘The Daily Show with Trevor Noah.’ Though the show has changed somewhat over the years, its spirit and traditions were carried on by the many who share in a spirit of innovation.

Students have spent weeks and months perfecting their bird calls and will be judged based on three criteria:

·       Authenticity of Call – The judges will act as experts of the Show to certify the authenticity of the call.

·       Poise and Delivery – Both stage presence and smoothness of delivery are considered. The beauty and singularity of the birdcall are essential.

·       Content of Introduction – Contestants must write their own ‘sketches’. It should include pertinent information about their bird. The information should be organized, well-composed, and in good taste. Humor can be a plus or minus, depending on its appropriateness.

Read more about the history of the Contest.

Tickets for the Piedmont Bird Calling Show will go on sale on March 2, through ShowTix4U. General admission tickets will be available for $25. General admission student tickets will be available for $15. Plan to buy tickets in advance because the one-time performance usually sells out.

Prior to every Bird Calling Contest, high school students are encouraged to submit their artwork for the official Contest poster. This year’s winner is PHS senior, Macie Gard.

The Alan Harvey Theater is located at 800 Magnolia Ave., on the campus of Piedmont High School. Please contact Kathryn Levenson, Teacher-Librarian for Piedmont High School, at klevenson@piedmont.k12.ca.us, or 510-594-2781.