As we draw nearer to the grand finale of the Ministry Culture Youth & Sports Talent Search competition, everyone is feeling the pressure as it heats up. The judges, contestants, and even the fans are recognizing the significance of this important juncture of the competition. Last evening saw the completion of the first of two semi-final groupings. The judges paying heed to this crucial stage within the competition offered more critical comments to ensure that the contestants are ready should they advance to the next round.

The fans who have been a major driving force for this competition are also feeling the pressure to throw their support behind their favorites and help their chances at winning.  However, it was the contestant who had the hardest job of the night. With only 10 persons advancing to the grand finale the contestants left it all on the stage to secure one of the limited spots.

Logan Simpson was the first performance of the night and started the show with a bang; receiving rave reviews from the judges. Logan had set the tone for the rest of the evening’s performers who for the most part rose to the occasion and delivered mostly performances that left an impression on the judges.  He was followed by an interesting and diverse set of talent including a brilliant classical dance routine by 11-year-old Keyshena Singh, some steel pan playing that got the judges rocking. Also, Daren Levan took a chance by painting one of our esteemed Judge’s lady Poonam Singh which received mixed reviews from the judging panel, Nia Williams emotive spoken word that moved even the judges to tears describing the cycle of abuse and its link to the father-daughter relationship; she definitely created a moment and was undoubtedly one of the standouts for the evening

Though a variety programme, the show seems to be dominated by singers. There were at least 5 singers bringing their A-game, creating some unforgettable moments with their diverse song selections. However, it was two young ladies that had the judges singing their praises, Ms. Curtella Lewis and Nia Allen. Curtella took a risk talking a mega-hit from Kelly Clarkson and received hefty praises from the judges while Nia Allen slew a cover of Beyonce’s listen from Dream Girls. Her moving performance caused Judge Gansham to leave his chair to offer up close and personal congratulations.

With one-half of the semi-Finals completed, they are already making final predictions with early competition favourites Nia Allen and Logan Simpson receiving overwhelming support; but the competition is far from over. Tune in next week for the second half of the semi-finals and join the fun by voting for your favourites.  We want to congratulate all the contestants and wish them all the best.  We are privileged to be able to view these young talented entertainers leaving their hearts on the stage week after week for our entertainment.

You can view the first semi-final here