BASSETERRE, St. Kitts - ONE contestant would be eliminated from the first group of participants in the inaugural Kittitian Superstar Teen Competition following Thursday night’s (Aug. 8) live televised ‘sing off’ on ZIZTV.
That night’s competition saw 18-year-old Zarena Frances singing ‘Titanium’ by David Guetta ft. Sia; Kyana Hobson, also 18, sang ‘The Climb’ by Miley Cyrus; Johneva Blake (13) with ‘Pray’ by Justin Beibe;, Shandia Martin (17) sang ‘I Can't Make You Love Me’ - Tank version; Shaquille Gumbs (19) sang ‘He'll Do It Again’ by Aaron Wigley; 13-year-old Lufkin Foster did ‘The Climb’ by Miley Cyrus; and Janel Herbert (18) sang ‘He knows my Name’ by Tommy Walker.
Originally, eight contestants were expected to participate but 15-year-old Bernel Huggins dropped out of the competition at short notice.
The ‘sing-off’ was hosted by the creator of the show, St. Clair ‘Chico’ Guishard, alongside Judy ‘Purple’ Dupont.
Family members and friends of the contestants as well as well-wishers were part of the in-house audience.
Guishard informed that the announcement of the eliminated contestant would be made during next week’s second ‘sing off’ contest.
The judges were Jason Davis (Chief Judge), Sahira David and Rolhensha Henry.
Following each performance, the judges each gave individual critique ranging from commendable statements to advice on improvement.
Davis was asked about the night’s performances, to which he said the youngsters are talented.
“There's a lot of talent...definitely a lot of talent. The only thing that kept them from shining is nerves, but, with time, once they get over the nerves we shall see a spectacular performance from these kids."
Asked what advice he would give to them in regards to the success of their overall onstage performance, Davis said: “I wish I could tell them get over the nerves, but it's easier said than done. With this going forward, this is going to get better because they have gotten over the initial (stage) shock.”
Davis was also questioned about his impression on the song choices. And according to him, the selections were “good”, adding that "they didn't choose anything beyond their reach”.
He went on to point out that he would like to see more performances and was of the opinion that the contestants had not been “putting on a show”.
Davis stated that there are certain parts in a song that should be accentuated. He therefore advises that the "theatrical" element is what sets a performer "apart from another performer".
Highlights of last night’s show can be seen via http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GtSa05RO2LI
Sponsors of the competition include LIME, ZIZ Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC), Dominos, Life Fitness Center, Tru Capo productions, Bob and Elvis Party Bus, Athletes Foot and the St. Kitts Bottling Company.
