Crowds line the streets during last year's Sounds and Sights on Thursday Nights.

Melanie Maxwell | AnnArbor.com file photo

Musicians and street performers are invited to try out for a slot in Sounds & Sights on Thursday Nights, an annual summerlong event that has become a popular attraction in downtown Chelsea.

Auditions will be held 5-8 p.m. Monday, March 21 at the Chelsea First United Methodist Church, 128 Park St. (across from the Purple Rose Theatre).

The Sounds & Sights on Thursday Nights series often draws 1,000-2,000 people for free outdoor music and more. This year’s schedule runs every Thursday from June 16-Aug. 25, with extra dates planned July 29 and 30 for the Chelsea Sounds & Sights Festival.

“We’re looking for more variety this year,” Craig Common, event co-organizer and owner of The Common Grill, said in a press release. “By that we mean different types of music such as Zydeco, Reggae, Swing Jazz, Glee Clubs or other a-capella groups, and any other genre that we don’t have now. We also would like to see more street performers audition to help expand our kids’ lineup this year.”

There are more than 75 paying spots open on the schedule. Due to the large turnout for last year’s auditions, the Sounds & Sights committee has changed the format for 2011: This year, interested parties are asked to reserve a time slot online at chelseafestivals.com.

Those auditioning will have 3-5 minutes to perform before a panel of judges made up of local artists, committee members and merchants. Performers can bring any necessary equipment (including amplifiers) if needed, but equipment will be on hand to accommodate most musicians' needs.

Those unable to audition may send in a CD or demo, or email a link or audio demo. Selected performers will be contacted to schedule performance dates based on availability.

Applications and more information are available online. For more information email info@chelseafestivals.com, or call the Chelsea Center for the Arts at 734-433-2787. CDs can be sent to CCA, 400 Congdon St., Chelsea, MI 48118 and must be received by March 15.