Dozens vying for Miss California title in Downtown Fresno

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Step by step, contestants at the Miss California pageant are rehearsing their talents, just hours before they come on stage at the Saroyan Theatre.

"Talent is the most nerve-wracking because it's almost two minutes of yourself on the stage to show the judges what you can do, and that's pretty exciting, I think, to show really who you are," Miss Inland Empire Outstanding Teen Brielle Angelique said.

Angelique is hoping to dance her way to the top. There are more than 40 teenagers competing, and more than 50 women from across the state are in Fresno -- all vying for the title of Miss California.

"I think it's pretty cool that it's in Fresno," Miss California press liaison Jonna Aluisi said. "We're centrally located, it's fabulous, and Fresno of all places to host a big event like this; this is the preliminary to the Miss America organization."

Aluisi says many of the contestants have brought their support staff to the Valley, making a positive impact on local restaurants and businesses. She says these women are all focused on being prepared for their upcoming competitions in talent, fitness, swimsuit and evening wear, and are learning important lessons.

"Not only communication skills and the ability to get up on stage and perform, but they're learning everyday skills; things that they're going to take with them in life," Aluisi said.

The women hope their hard work will pay off with a crown or scholarship money.

Preliminary competitions will take place through the week. On Saturday, at the Saroyan Theatre, one woman will be crowned Miss California.