Rick’s Latest Listicle: The Top Strangest Talents at Miss America

By Rick Rose

The Miss America pageant is known for its beauty, poise, and talent. But sometimes, the talents that contestants showcase can be a little bit strange or at least very memorable. While I am friends with 6 Miss America’s, their talents weren’t nearly as fun as these. Here are 10 of the strangest talents that have ever been performed at Miss America. I wonder what this year’s contestants are rehearsing over the next couple months leading up to the crowning of Miss America 2024.

10. Trampoline jumping: Miss Illinois Judy Ford performed a trampoline routine in 1968, going on to win the national title

9. Flute playing: Miss Alaska Sarah Palin played the flute in 1984

8. Ventriloquism: Miss Arizona Vonda Kay Van Dyke performed a ventriloquism routine in 1963. Neither her nor her doll won

7. Bollywood dance: Miss America 2014 Nina Davuluri performed a Bollywood dance in 2014 honoring her heritage and going on to be the first Indian title holder

6. Paraguayan harp playing: Miss Utah Sharlene Wells played the Paraguayan harp while singing in Spanish in 1985. Wells specificity won her w title

5 Martial arts: Miss California Jennifer Hawkins performed a martial arts routine in 2004. Look out!

4. Leathercraft: Miss Missouri Karen McDaniel made a leather purse during her talent performance in 1977. Wonder if she sold all the ones she created during her rehearsals?

3. Accordion playing: Miss Arkansas Mary Beth Medley played the accordion in 1974.

2. Flamenco dancing: Miss New Mexico Linda Garcia performed a flamenco dance in 1973.

And number one. Miss Virginia Camille Schrier did a chemistry presentation to win her title of Miss America 2021!