The first LIME/NIFCA Performing Arts Finals came off last Friday at Combermere School auditorium with spectacular performances by 12 energetic and attention-grabbing entrants.
The competitors were not only vying for top spots but through their performances were sending a strong message to the moderate but supportive audience.
They were depicting various life experiences through the categories of drama, dance, poetry and music.
It was the group Dance Dynamics that climaxed the night’s offerings with an outstanding, dramatic piece called Turf Wars.
As the young performers executed their skills, it was almost like watching a clip from a movie. With the rhythms of the drum and energetic movements, the group brought to life the story of two gangs fighting for territories – but in the end becoming friends.
Also displaying great talent was Justin Poleon through his dramatic piece Harsh Reality. The 18-year-old gave a rousing depiction of a teen trying to find the identity, while the group Dancin Africa Juniors rendered a stunning performance in Tenderness.
There was loud applause for the duo Rhea Henry and Ashley Inniss as they shed some light on human experiences, giving thanks to God through their dance Reach.
Sasky Luison’s performance of the song Strange Fruit also stood out, along with her second piece My Life is in your hands.
First-timer in the NIFCA competition, Maiella Best, of Ellerslie Secondary School, also provided the audience with something to cheer about.
In her first performance, the 15-year-old sang with a powerful voice, Yet Still I Rise. Her second song was There Is A Name, which also garnered loud cheers.
Dempstu “DJ” Simmons gripped the audience’s attention in the poems category, while Steve Jackman, decked out in red and white, gave them some food for thought as he performed a piece about HIV/AIDS in the music category.
Other performers on the night included Tamar Worrell and Nicole Pilgrim, both of whom competed in the music category.
Performances continue tonight and conclude on October 17.
