Norwich — Organizers of the revived Rose Arts Festival are bringing back another old tradition but with an entirely new twist, transforming the old Rose Arts Queen Pageant into the Rose Court Competition, a leadership contest open to all youths in the greater Norwich area.

The Rose Court Competition is open to all youths ages 16 to 20 by the June 22 judging date and living within a 15-mile radius of Norwich and will honor the tradition by requiring candidates to exemplify pride in Norwich, community involvement, intellect and leadership.

The Rose Court 2019 applicants should embody the modern, diverse, well-rounded and dynamic youth of the area. The competition will be judged by a mix of past Rose Arts queens and prominent members of the community.

Contestants must submit essays of 250 to 500 words on one of four selected topics and give a personal presentation at the June 22 competition at the Wauregan Ballroom in Norwich.

Prizes include $1,000 cash for first place, $250 for second place and $100 for third place.

Entry forms and essay topics are listed on the festival’s website, roseartsfestival.com.