Local talent last night took to the stage for the chance to win a gig with a difference — performing before an audience of thousands aboard a cruise ship.The audition, held at the Chewstick Lounge on Court Street, was organised by the Department of Tourism as part of its search for performers who can give Royal Caribbean cruise ship passengers a taste of Bermudian entertainment.Around 20 performers gave it their best last night in the hope of being shortlisted for a second talent show tonight in front of Royal Caribbean executives. Those who do make the final cut will be asked to deliver their act to guests when Royal Caribbean’s two regular liners — Grandeur of the Seas and Explorer of the Seas — are in port at Dockyard.Each act had just five minutes to impress a judging panel made up of Bermuda Music Federation of Variety Artists president Leroy Simmons, entertainer Nashanti Bailey, and Director of Tourism William Griffith.Tashae Thompson, events and product development manager with the Department of Tourism, said the audition was a great opportunity for local performers to get some off-Island exposure.“I think the judges will be looking for individuals who have plenty of energy and who can perform in front of a large audience,” she said.“It’s been a great turnout tonight and we’ve had plenty of variety, we’re not just looking for your typical lounge singer — we want people who can perform and engage a crowd.”Contestant Kaurie Daniels, sang ‘Summertime’ before delivering a passionate monologue.“I think it would be really exciting to perform on-board a cruise ship — even if it is in port,” Ms Daniels, 25, who runs the Horizons Bda theatre company, said.“It would give me a chance to perform to a different, larger audience, which is why I decided to give it a try tonight.”Performers who made the cut after last night’s show will be given a second chance to run through their act at the Fairmont Hamilton Princess Hotel tonight from 7pm before the final winners are selected. Selected artists will have the opportunity to perform while Royal Caribbean cruise ships are in port during this and next year’s cruise ship season.