A LINE-UP of 12 performers impressed the audience and gave judges a tough job in this year’s Marlwood’s Got Talent show.
Fronted by radio presenter Paris Troy, the “glittery, feel-good” event at Marlwood School on May 13 featured musicians, singers and dancers, with a special contribution from teachers and an impressive drumming display from the Marlwood Samba Band to open the event.
Melinda Evans, of organisers Friends of Marlwood school, said the judges – former pupil and teacher Michael Hulin and current teachers Louisa Berrington and George Sargent – had an “impossible job” of picking a winner from the singers, dancers, pianists – including one who also played the cello – drummers and guitarists taking part.
In the end they chose Year 11 student Akira Paterson (pictured above, front, with the judges), who sang and played Keane’s ‘Somewhere Only We Know’ on the piano.
Akira said: “I’m honoured to have won Marlwood’s got talent this year – it was an amazing night that I believe everyone enjoyed, so thank you to everyone involved in setting it up.
“Also I have to mention the amazing array of talent on show that night and it makes me very happy to see so many young musicians expressing themselves.
“I’m glad the judges chose me as their winner and even more glad that I made some people cry – my job is complete!”
Winner of the Audience Vote Daniil Honcharuk (pictured above) also performed a piano solo.
Daniil said: “I thank everyone for the support that I won.
“I was very impressed by it, especially the gifts and the atmosphere.
“I was a little nervous, but most people calmed me down. Thank you to everyone who voted for me”.
Mr Sargent said: “This year’s Marlwood’s Got Talent was my first ever, and one I’ll never forget.
“So many amazing performances – I was blown away and sometimes left speechless.
“There were some very well-deserved winners, and an incredibly well put-together evening.”
Melinda added: “It was wonderful to see students supporting and encouraging each other throughout the evening – it’s not easy to get up on stage and perform in front of a packed hall.
“And everyone went home buzzing with happiness and a smile on their face.
“Although not competing for a prize, the incomparable Teachers’ Act was a joyous miscellany of music, costume and comedic hi-jinx silliness.
“MGT really is a fantastic community event, and all monies raised will go towards funding the summer musical being held at the school.”
FOMS thanked members and pupils who volunteered to stage the event, as well as the sponsors who donated prizes for the raffle.
For more information about FOMS visit the group’s Facebook page or email marlwoodfriends@gmail.com.