“THE standard just keeps getting higher and higher and this year it went up another notch again.”
That’s the verdict of Redditch Has Talent producer Dave Wilkins after another stunning evening before a packed audience at the Palace Theatre.
“There were 18 acts and as far as I am concerned they were all winners as they’d all been through some tough auditions to get to the final,” said Dave.
“They all got certificates with the eventual winners receiving trophies and vouchers.”
The variety of acts was wide ranging and the evening showcased the tremendous talents local youngsters.
There were singers, dancers, actors, piano, guitar and ukulele players and choirs all competing for the top spots in three age groups – ten to 13, 14 to 16 and 17 plus.
The five-strong judging panel was headed by Tim Mackrill, manager of the Palace Theatre while the prizes were presented by Redditch resident and former leader of the Worcestershire music education service Heidi Nixon.
She said: “Redditch Has Talent, that’s for sure! – I was honoured to be asked to present prizes to the winners of this year’s show.
“This annual event has to be one of my favourites as it brings together the Redditch community to celebrate achievement. Well done to all who took part and congratulations to the worthy winners.”
Dave added: “For me, Redditch Has Talent is a wonderful opportunity we give to all young people who have a talent and who can do something in the theatre.
“It’s a special thing to stand there up on stage and it’s a memory they will carry with them forever.”
The winners were: ten – 13: Josh White, who had just finished 12 months as James in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s School of Rock in the West End.
Runner up: Alvechurch Boys Choir ‘Injured’.
14-16: Dancer India-Rose Cox, from Stratford, who has just gained a placed at a prestigious dance school in Chester.
17 Plus: Redditch’s knockout performance group ‘It’s A Sign’.
The interval performance was by another Redditch group, The Elite Choir and plans are already under way for Redditch Has Talent 2019.
