Diego Martin teens show off talent

The competition at the Diego Martin North Secondary School Auditorium featured the musical talents and dance skills of local teens in a memorable night of fun and laughs that kept the audience both young and old entertained.

All of the 11 contestants featured were under the age of 18, with the majority being under 15 years. They kept the audience on the edge of their seats as they delivered spirited performances.

Despite a hard fought battle, Shinell Iniss, 18, of Carenage, topped the competition as she stole the show with a dance number titled “Dance Ministry to Better”. Ta’Zyah O’Connor, 15, of Fort George, drew laughter and a rousing round of applause from the audience as she belted out the calypso, “Dear Doctor”, written by herself. She placed second, while 11-year-old Adora Riley’s soulful rendition of Beyonce’s hit single “Listen”, was third.

Judges Carlysle “Juiceman” Roberts, David Jacob and Stephen Jardine assessed contestants on originality, stage presence, crowd response, lyrical content and melody.

Following the talent show guests were treated to a lively performance from popular local rap duo, Nebula 868 and a pre-Independence fireworks display.

Smith told Newsday the event was a total success. Asked whether, he intended to continue with the show, he said he was thoroughly impressed with the performances and given the overwhelmingly positive response from the community; he would make it an annual event. “We’ve received so much support from the members of the community, both the kids and their parents.

We’ve actually had to narrow down the number of contestants because we’ve received so many applicants.

I’m really happy to be a part of this initiative, I know the community really enjoyed it and I fully intend to be doing this next year.”