Saturday 15th March 2014 saw The Door Youth Project’s annual Undiscovered Youth Talent Show Final, where young people from across the country gathered to showcase their musical talents before a packed Marling School Hall.
[metaslider id=”203″]
Brendan Conboy, Chief Executive of The Door, founder of Undiscovered Youth and a member of the judging panel this year, opened the evening by telling the audience “Change is here to stay.” He referred to the new organizational team for the Talent Show and the new venue, he went on to explain how The Door changes young people’s lives for the better. Having headed up the competition since its inception in 2002, Brendan stepped aside last year, and the mantle has been taken up by Barrie Voyce, Director of Operations at The Door. “What an incredible night,” said Barrie after the show, “This has been a real team effort! We wouldn’t be here without the efforts of so many people behind the scenes, not least Kieran Powell who has done such a amazing job with all the sound and lighting and supporting the acts.”
Ten young people competed in the final after hearing from 2013 winner Bryony Purdue who kicked off the show with a self-penned song, ‘Stars’. The finalists delighted the crowds with a mixture of show-tunes, pop songs and a few classic tunes. Whilst the judging panel marked each act on a combination of technical and stage ability, the audience contributed to the final scores through their cheers and claps. As the evening came to a close Bryony presented the prizes and awards. Audience Favourite was 14 year old Rosita da Silva Teixeira for her breath-taking performance of ‘I Dreamed a Dream’. Unity Toher celebrated her 14th birthday with a Judges Special Recognition, Unity had played guitar and sung Maroon 5’s hit ‘Payphone’ with a maturity beyond her years. 3rd overall place went to newcomer Willow DriverSharp (16) for a funky rendition of ‘Little Talks’ whilst crooner Hamish Robb’s singing and dancing to ‘Fly me to the moon’ grabbed the 2nd place. However the biggest cheer of the night came when the 2014 champion, Starbuck, was announced. Having first entered in 2008, Starbuck had travelled back to Stroud from her now home in Norfolk especially for the Final. Her performance of Fleetwood Mac’s ‘Big Love’ combined her amazing guitar and pitch-perfect vocals left the judges unanimous in their decision.
“Starbuck deserves all the praise she gets,” said Barrie, “She’s not only an amazing musician, but she’d been a great supporter and advocate for The Door for so many years. I’m delighted for her, and all the finalists who showed what a wealth of talent young people have.”
