Samantha takes win at GGT

GEORGE NEWS - Gospel artists of all ages from across the Eden district showed what they were made of during the George Has Got Talent (GGT) Gospel Artist and Bands Top 15 show on Wednesday 19 July at the George Arts Theatre.

According to Lee Venter of Harmony Spiritual and Emotional Healing Centre that hosted the event, it was a celestial experience that was met with loads of enthusiasm from participants.

"The quality of talents displayed by local musicians and artists was amazing. Although we initiated this event to give a platform for hidden local talent within the George community, the depth of the talents displayed and the spiritually inspired performances moved the focus from 'just another competition' to a glorious celebration that gave glory and honour to God," said Venter.

There could however only be one winner and although competition was strong, it was Samantha Pedro's angel voice that took her to first place.

Pedro was followed by Veronique Ferndale, Mischa Lottering, John T Haas and Isabelle Botes. All five these contestants were also scouted for Talent America where they will have the chance to represent Team South Africa.

Talent America is a talent competition open to performers of all ages. It has a proven track record for discovering talent and is where many of today's hottest actors, models, singers, dancers, rising stars and entertainers got their big break.

"To those participants who did not make the top five and other hopeful future participants, please remember that this was only the beginning of an exciting project which will certainly go from strength to strength in the future. Never stop glorifying God with your talent," said Venter.

Harmony Spiritual and Emotional Healing Centre thanks everybody for making the event such a success and achieving the objectives of, firstly, exposing the massive hidden talent in the community and secondly, ploughing back.

"We plan to have more shows involving all the participants who were involved due to the quality of their talent and performance," said Venter.

Judging was done by Karen Gray and Deon Lensing of Unlimited Talent Performing Arts, a Christian Gospel Band representative, Sophia Trout of People Against Substance Abuse, and votes from the audience.

Any person or organisation interested in sponsoring or making a contribution towards this exciting project in the interest of our community, is welcome to contact Venter on 076 240 2347.

Judges and winners are, from left: Sophia Trout, Karen Gray, Isabelle Botes, John T Haas, Mischa Lottering, Veronique, Samantha Pedro, Deon Lensing and Lee Venter. Photos: Cyrilene Wesso