KNYSNA NEWS - During the June/July school holidays, Knysna Primary School learner Abigail Smith went to New York to represent South Africa in the Talent America Competition.
Abigail was part of a group of 75 participants and parents who represented the country at this prestigious event.
Music
Abigail focused her attention and preparation this year on her musical instrument items (the clarinet) and the results spoke for themselves. She entered two solo items, and both songs she managed to learn from scratch within six weeks, which goes to show the dedication she put in preparing for the competition. She performed the Disney hit Song Beauty and the Beast, for which she received first place, and the Latin pop single Havana, which netted her a second place.
Modelling
Abigail also took part in various modelling items and received first place for Swimwear & Fitness in the age category 12 to 14 years. For her Formal Wear item, she received second place. Abigail's photo was voted first place with her Commercial Photogenic entry. She received the 2019 Top Model Award (overall winner) in her age group 12 to 14 years.
Dance
Abigail is also an accomplished dancer and practices many forms of dancing. She performed a Modern Contemporary Dancing Solo item and received a runner-up medal.
Another highlight was when Abigail was called back by one of the esteemed panel judges – Barry Shapiro from Herman & Lipson Casting – who interviewed her and requested a copy of her resume and portfolio. During rehearsals, the music producer from Caelum Music Productions, Dante Lattanzi, was so impressed with the talent of the contestants that he requested them to record a CD.
A group got together (including Abigail) and quickly formed a band. They all liked Abigail's performance of Havana on the clarinet and the newly formed band decided they would record this song. The CD is being prepared by Dante Lattanzi and Abigail will receive a copy once the recording is finalised. Being an avid dancer, Abigail could not miss the opportunity to perform with the cast of Aladdin – Arabian Nights at the Broadway Dance Centre. Although a very demanding routine of dancing and singing, Abigail was in her element and enjoyed every moment of the workshop.
Downtime
It was not just business in New York though. The group had an awesome time there and went to see many attractions when they did not perform. They took a ferry ride right up to the Statue of Liberty and the expected selfies were taken. The group also visited the famous Madame Tussauds Wax Museum. There they were able to "shake hands" with the rich and famous. Being a Starbucks fan since the first time she tasted it in Dubai, there was no way Abigail would not make the obligatory run down to Starbucks while she was in New York. The underground railway system was also being used to the fullest by the group, as they went around New York shopping for "bargains" (USD was almost R15 to $1).
This experience really was a highlight of Abigail's young life and we wish her all the best for the future.
'We bring you the latest Knysna, Garden Route news'
