Bermuda’s youth have world class talent

Click the red arrow to view photos. *Photos by Ephraim Divine

There should be more international stars coming out of Bermuda judging by the level of talent seen at the Bermuda’s Youth Got Talent show on Friday night. 

From the ages of six right up to 17 the actors, singers, dancers and poets astounded judges and audience members at the Ruth Seaton James Centre. 

During the show, creator, producer and host of the show, Kelly Hunt, praised the work of the Coalition for the Protection of Children for which she is director of special projects. 

The talent showcase helps to raise awareness and funds for the cause that has advocated for children’s welfare for 20 years.

It is difficult to single any one performance out as every performer exhibited competence, confidence and skill. Here are just some of the highlights from the evening’s performances. Ameina Lewis was certainly one of the show stoppers. At just eight years old she displayed a maturity, decades beyond her years with her soulful version of Etta James’ At Last. 

Her strong voice and captivating stage presence showed all the trappings of a professional. Speaking to her during the interval she told us that her dream is to become a professional singer. 

In a strike of coincidence, another young singer, Quinn Outerbridge, sang the same song and also had the audience in awe at her mature voice and mesmerising stage presence. 

Precious Cooper was another standout act — her Beyoncé-inspired dance injected some fire into the evening’s line-up. 

She astounded us with her passion. 

Micah Corea brought the spirit of Michael Jackson to life dancing to Smooth Criminal. 

What really stood out was the fact that he included so many of Michael’s different moves into the routine — this was no ‘one-trick’ Moonwalk. His thoughtful comment to the judges was “I watched videos of him and learned to think like him.”

What’s more, he looked the part with his white suit, single glove and curls of hair.

It was refreshing to see a family group — the young Simons Brothers — who performed a sweet version of Owl City’s Fireflies. 

The band included the youngest performer of the night — a six year old on drums. Judge Patrina Paynter (aka Power Girl) told the brothers to stick together as a family band as it was so rare nowadays. 

Steve Easton of Just Platinum Records and comedian Nadanja Bailey were also on the panel and all three were constructive and gently honest with their comments.

One of the most popular acts of the night was the WPS West Pembroke Cheerleaders who gave an explosive performance to Psy’s Gangnam Style. It was a riot and the crowd went wild! 

Angelis Hunt performed a unique version of Bob Marley’s Redemption Song that he gave his own sound. Judge Easton encouraged him to take up guitar to accompany his voice and be able to fully express himself. Tamara Jones and Julia Frith gave pitch perfect performances, Rhema Webb Holllis rendered one judge speechless with the power of her voice while the popular Shori-Lindsay Trott melted the crowd’s heart displaying huge confidence in such a small package.

The rest of the performances were also fantastic — their names are listed on page 16 with more pictures.

Now in its second season, BYGT will be broadcast on ZBM on May 20 after which the winner will be decided. That talented individual will receive $5,000 and an iPad2.

For more information visit www.bygt.bm and for information on and donations towards the Coalition visit www.coalition.bm.