Talented teen brings home the gold
Local resident does South Africa proud at Talent America in New York.
Local resident, Lauren Blight, represented South Africa at Talent America and brought home five first-place trophies.
Lauren is a Grade 11 learner at Hoërskool Randburg and is the vocal student of André Martinez. After Lauren was selected at the national rounds of Talent Africa to represent Team SA at Talent America in New York, she thoroughly prepared for her solo and duo vocal performances.
Lauren entered for four solo items for the age group 15 to 17 and two duets for age group 18 to 24, where she partnered with fellow vocalist, Jessica Claire de Wet. Lauren was awarded first place for all four of her solo items, as well as first place for their rock duet and third place for their pop duet.
She also received two special awards at the gala evening, namely the Divisional Winner, awarded to the best singer/ songwriter in the age group 15 to 17, and the Tristar Award, given to a performer in the same age group that scores the highest in three divisions.
In addition, Lauren received a call-back from Ann Wright Representatives, a New York talent agency, and was interviewed by Susan Wright.
During the eight-day trip to New York, Lauren was also fortunate to attend various workshops, namely a vocal workshop with Bob Marx; a workshop at the New York Film Academy with Blanche Baker, and a Broadway workshop with Wicked cast member, Hannah Shankman.
“This was an experience and an opportunity to learn more about the industry. The highlight of this trip was surely the Broadway Show Wicked at the Gershwin Theatre. I want to thank Talent Africa for creating this opportunity and my coach (André), my duet partner (Jessica) and parents for supporting me in pursuing my dreams,” Lauren said.
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