Starz at Home Competition is yet again making its way back to discover new talents. Born in ‘hard lockdown’ in April last year, the competition gives young talent an opportunity to ‘be discovered’ and shine online.
Lisa Bobbert, competition convenor said: “We started Starz at Home because we wanted to create something that was uplifting, fun and affordable for everyone. We really believe that there is joy in performing – it sparks joy in the performer and the people watching. “The response was so great that we set up Season 2 in September. Gateway came on board as our platinum sponsor for Season 2 and Starz took off,” Bobbert explains. She said last year they had close to 700 entries from all over South Africa. “We have been overwhelmed by the talent and the response,” Bobbert said. As a Platinum sponsor, Gateway Theatre of Shopping has thrown its weight behind the initiative with publicity and prizes, including the weekly ‘Golden Buzzer’ award. Michelle Shelley marketing manager said: “As a bold, extroverted brand with a strong desire for creative self-expression, we are enthusiastic supporters. If we can help young stars to achieve their dreams, develop local talent, build confidence, and experience personal growth from taking on this challenge, we are having a positive influence on our community.”
Bobbert said that messages from parents saying how much their kids have grown in confidence keeps them on track. “We want to celebrate every person that is brave enough to step up and put their talent on show, whether they win or not,” she said. The illustrious judging panel stretches across the Performing Arts and includes Sketchy Bongo, Paxton, Juliette Pauling, Inge Beckmann, Esjay Jones, Lloyd Cele, Nick Jordaan and Jane Linley-Thomas. With regards to what the judges are looking for, Bobbert said: “We like to use Starz as an acronym – Something Special, Talent, Authenticity, Radiate a love of performing and a little Zaniness.” Starz has grown and evolves with every season. In Season 2, a mentorship programme, put together by Jane Linley-Thomas, was added. Starz celebrity judges and industry professionals Daisy Spencer, Shelley Mclean, Mthokozisi Zulu and Danny Guiselli will be coaching and sharing their skills with the up and coming stars. Entrants don’t need formal training or production facilities. “It’s about the love of performing and expressing yourself. Performances can be filmed on cellphones and uploaded to the Facebook group,” said Bobbert.
As production tips, Bobbert suggests that “using good lighting and finding a background which is not too distracting, although the performance is always the most important element.” She said the competition is open to young performers between the ages of five and 21, contestants need to record a short clip – no longer than ninety seconds – of them singing, dancing, acting, or playing a musical instrument. Bobbert added that: “Three different age categories, from seven to 11 years, 12 to 16 years and 17 to 21 years, and four performance categories – dance, vocals, acting, musical variety and family groups – make judging a bit easier. Entries can be solo performances or submitted in the family, or group categories.” For more information, join the Facebook group Starz at Home. Entries close on 31 May.
