Auditions for talented performing artists held in the Norman Doubell Hall attracted scores of candidates, also from outside Bloemfontein. Artists came from as far as Thaba Nchu and Botshabelo to impress a panel of judges tasked with selecting the cream of the crop for a live performance at this year’s Heidedal Music Expo.
Auditions were held on Saturday, 10 February, and Sunday. Young people from the ages of six to 36 years showcased their talent, hoping to make it into the final group to be further mentored during a workshop ahead of the eagerly-awaited event planned for 15 March in Heidedal, Bloemfontein.
Candidates who auditioned included bands, instrumentalists, rappers, musical poets, and DJs, as well as vocalists performing a solo act.
Dr Nathan Bagarette, one of the organisers, says those selected during the two-day audition period will have critical knowledge imparted onto them at the planned workshop to sharpen their performance. He explains the workshop will be educational, while exposing young people to the entertainment industry.
According to Bagarette, the music expo will be critical in addressing specific aspects in entertainment, as well as the prevention of drug abuse amongst the youth, the provision of opportunities to nurture their talent and realising their dream.
“Promising young artists will have the opportunity to develop their talent and take it to another level. This platform provides a fantastic opportunity for raw talent to be developed,” says Bagarette, adding that music was the vehicle necessary to positively transform society and spread a message.
“This is important to champion the cause of exposing how destructive gender-based violence (GBV) and drug abuse are in our society,” believes Bagarette.
“We are grateful for the support. We had successful auditions the past two days, which was made possible by partners and sponsors; the Free State Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Reaction; and the panel of judges who ensured the selection of artists. If it were not for them, people would not have come in numbers.
“We also thank schools in participating in spreading information.
“The workshop from 12 to 14 March will focus on honing their skills, culminating in a big show on 15 March.
“We are calling on everyone to witness talent,” invites Bagarette.
