Clay Aiken to Host DPAC Rising Star Awards with Live Performance
Talented finalists and ensemble unite for a captivating night of song and dance in Raleigh
Poulami is an associate editor. She did her MA in English from Miranda House, University of Delhi and has qualified UGC-NET. She also holds a PG diploma in Editing and Publishing from Jadavpur University. Her journey as a content writer began in 2017 and since then, Poulami has garnered diverse interests along the way.
Read full bio of Poulami Nag
Image: Instagram
Clay Aiken Reprises Role At Dpac Rising Star Awards
Clay Aiken is back at DPAC. The American Idol alum will return to Raleigh’s DPAC Rising Star Awards next Thursday, May 29, to once again guide the ceremony and lend his voice to the evening’s opening number. The DPAC announcement on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/p/DJ9m0w3t3_5/) highlighted that Clay first joined the Rising Star family seven years ago and has remained one of the program’s most passionate advocates.
A Night Of Emerging Talent
The DPAC Rising Star Awards showcase 20 student finalists representing schools across North Carolina. This year’s ceremony, supported by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, promises a dynamic evening of song and dance. Aiken won’t just helm the event—he’ll share the stage with the finalists and the ensemble for a high-energy opening performance.
Tickets are priced at $27.50 and can be purchased online at DPACnc.com. With affordable pricing and a duty-free showcase of young talent, the event aims to foster community support for arts education and celebrate the next generation of performers.
Local Connections And Community Support
Beyond the Rising Star Awards, Aiken has maintained strong ties to Raleigh’s arts scene. In an April Instagram post (https://www.instagram.com/p/DH1B-DgusbS/), he praised Theatre Raleigh’s production of The Trip to Bountiful, underscoring his support for local theater and emerging talent. His ongoing engagement with North Carolina arts initiatives reflects a commitment to mentoring and nurturing young performers.
About Clay Aiken
Born in Raleigh in 1978, Clay Aiken rose to fame as the runner-up on American Idol’s second season in 2003. His debut album, Measure of a Man, topped the Billboard 200 chart, and his 2004 holiday release, Merry Christmas with Love, became the best-selling Christmas album of the decade. Aiken has since released several records, performed on Broadway, and pursued philanthropic work, including co-founding the national mentoring organization Mentoring USA.
In politics, Aiken made headlines again when he filed as the Democratic candidate for North Carolina’s 2nd congressional district in 2014. He has balanced a diverse career spanning music, theater, advocacy, and public service—all while remaining closely connected to his home state.
What To Expect On May 29
Attendees can look forward to a professionally staged ceremony, complete with lighting design, choreography, and live accompaniment. Aiken’s presence adds star power, and his collaborative opening act with the student finalists signals an inclusive celebration rather than a standard awards presentation. The evening promises memorable duets, solo showcases, and group numbers that spotlight both individual talent and ensemble unity.
With Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina underwriting the event, the Rising Star Awards underscore the value of arts in education and community wellness. Audience members are encouraged to arrive early for pre-show activities, meet-and-greets, and a chance to view student artwork in the lobby gallery.
The DPAC Rising Star Awards have grown into a marquee spring event for families, educators, and arts supporters. As Aiken returns to his hosting duties, he brings decades of performance experience and an authentic enthusiasm for mentorship. Raleigh audiences have witnessed his career arc—from Idol stage to record-breaker to community advocate—and this year’s ceremony offers another opportunity to see him in action.
The DPAC Rising Star Awards kick off at 7:00 p.m. on May 29 at the Durham Performing Arts Center. For tickets and event details, visit DPACnc.com.
Clay Aiken’s return not only elevates the evening but also shines a spotlight on the young performers who make the Rising Star Awards a beloved tradition in North Carolina’s cultural calendar.
Read full bio of Poulami Nag
