UPDATE: Warren was selected today as a 2025 Sprout Champion with the Bill Riley Talent Search.

A Pella student has advanced to the semifinals of the annual showcase of unique skills at the Iowa State Fair. Warren Place has advanced in the Bill Riley Talent Search in the “Sprouts” acts division, featuring children ages two to twelve. Place is performing a Lyrical Dance Solo, and is highlighted today at 12:30 p.m. The Sprouts do not compete beyond the semi-finals, but perform in the Championship Show as Sprout Champions set for Sunday, August 17 at 1:30 p.m. on the Anne and Bill Riley Stage. Place dances with The Dans Company in Pella. The Bill Riley Talent Search has put Iowa’s young talent on stages across the state each summer since 1960. Nearly 100 local qualifying competitions are held across the state and winners advance to the State Fair competition, where there are seven days of preliminary competition.