A field of 21 talented young women will compete for the crown of Miss Auburn next Friday and Saturday.

The Miss Auburn Scholarship Program, a preliminary to the Miss Washington and Miss America pageants, will stretch over two evenings at the Auburn Performing Arts Center, 700 E. Main St.

The program will begin each night at 7. Contestants each will deliver the talent portion of their programs on either night.

The theme for this year’s showcase is “Lights, Camera, Action, a Salute to Hollywood!” The Auburn Noon Lions is sponsoring the event.

Cara Rudd will be on hand to pass on the crown.

The winner will receive scholarship money and rewards, with the first runner-up and other finalists receiving gifts and rewards. Contestant also are eligible for additional scholarship money in different categories.

Last year’s scholarship program pageant generated a record $84,150 in gifts and scholarships. Rudd received $8,250 in scholarships.

Nancy Backus, program president, said each of the 24 contestants received scholarships, the lowest of which was $1,000.

In addition, the program allows each contestant to receive scholarship donations through the organization’s Web site, www.missauburn.org.

Ticket order forms are available at www.missauburn.org or Timberland Savings, Sterling Savings, Rottles, and Auburn Mail & Copy Center.

Individual Friday and/or Saturday night tickets will be sold only at the door.

For ticket information, call 253-833-1867.

The pageant is joining the Auburn Food Bank in accepting donations of canned and dry goods. Collection boxes will be on site both evenings.

In addition, guests who participate in the People’s Choice Award can help by donating a dollar while casting a vote for their favorite contestant. Proceeds will be shared by the winner and the food bank.