Jason Unrau
Northern News Services

Northern News Services Inuvik (Apr 12/04) - Idol mania has struck the NWT and two Inuvik residents want in on the action.

Doris Rogers, 16, is heading to Edmonton to audition to be the next Canadian Idol. On April 19, she's going to put her singing voice to the test in front of the judges.

Roland Petrin of Inuvik made it to the semi-finals of the North of 60 Idol contest being held at the Royal Canadian Legion in Yellowknife. Petrin will return May 1 to compete for a spot in the finals. - Jennifer Geens/NNSL photo

"I want to follow my dreams," said Rogers. "That's to go somewhere and share my singing with others."

Roland Petrin, on the other hand, is staying closer to home, participating in the North of 60 Idol contest, being held by the Royal Canadian Legion in Yellowknife.

Petrin competed last week at the Legion-sponsored contest. After his first round of singing, he'll return to Yellowknife for the semi-finals on May 1.

Petrin sang Dwight Yoakam's "Guitars and Cadillacs" in the first round, then followed it up with Elvis Presley's "Suspicious Minds."

Rogers has set her sights a little higher.

If Rogers' past successes are any indication, her chances at stardom through Canadian Idol are legitimate.

Three weeks ago, Rogers captured first prize at the Mackenzie Jamboree Talent Show in Tsiigehtchic.

Since the end of January, she has been honing her talents with SAMS music teacher and seasoned professional performer Jerry Woolridge.

"Doris is never late to her practices and picks up well on suggestions," said Woolridge.

"I'm just finessing her raw talent."

No stranger to singing in front of an audience, Woolridge and his wife Susan used to co-own a dinner theatre in St. John's, Nfld., to help pay their way through school.

The young singer is taking the advice from her mentor to heart, but the one that stands out goes a little lower.

"Singing from my gut," said Rogers.

And this was evident last Friday as she showcased that ability for SAMS students, performing a lovely rendition of Blue Moon of Kentucky.

This song and the Dixie Chicks' Travelling Soldier will be among Rogers' repertoire for Edmonton.

"I'm killer nervous," said Rogers about her upcoming audition in the City of Champions.

"So you better vote for me."

If Rogers has a successful audition in Edmonton, she will join other young hopefuls from around Canada in Toronto later in the year for the taping of Canadian Idol.

Then, and only then, will TV watchers -- Inuvik residents included -- have an opportunity to cast their vote for Rogers.