Thunderstorms Take Center Stage at Lilburn Idol

Friday evening thunderstorms and lightning stole opening night at Lilburn Idol.

Prior to the downpour children and families camped out in , eager to enjoy the evening festivities.

At 6:30 p.m., strong winds began to blow through the park and soon the area covered in picnic blankets and lawn chairs was abandoned.

Sound technicians swiftly unplugged microphones and speakers to avoid water damage, and contestants were asked to meet inside the auditorium.

Lilburn Idol policy allows for a 30-minute to an hour delay of performances due to inclement weather.

However, Lilburn Police Lt. Robert Worley notified Mayor Diana Preston that the storm was just the beginning of a weather system moving through the area. Storms were expected to continue through midnight.

"We really hate to cancel an event like this because everyone is looking forward to it," the mayor said. "But we will reschedule and hopefully have all the contestants back."

The 16 Idol contestants scheduled to perform Friday evening will have a chance to show off their talents on July 29. The next Lilburn Idol performance night will take place July 8. Finals are scheduled in August.

While many in attendance were disappointed by the cancellation, Idol contestant Aimee Shadburn took it in stride.

"I'm sad that I won't be able to perform," said Shadburn, who had a host of family members in attendance to cheer her on. "But it's Mother Nature and there's not much you can do. I'll be back to sing."