Talented Croydon teen (15) selected to audition in LA
Kiara Reddy (15) will be singing, acting, dancing and modelling in Los Angeles in July.
Croydon teenager Kiara Reddy (15) is singing the right notes, dancing the right moves, posing the right way and pulling the best acting performances.
Kiara auditioned for iPop towards the end of last year and received a callback to audition in Los Angeles in July.
iPop is a five-day talent convention hosted biannually every winter and summer. It promotes emerging talent to leading agents, managers, casting directors and music industry professionals.
It is also a platform for selected models, actors, singers and dancers to take their talent internationally and build an international career in the arts. The competition will run from July 9 to 13.
Kiara auditioned and received a callback for all four categories, acting, singing, dancing and photographic modelling.
“I was ecstatic when I received the callback. I couldn’t believe that I made all four categories and I think I am the only one in Johannesburg who made it in all four,” said Kiara.
Kiara is a Grade 10 learner at Holy Rosary School for Girls in Edenvale.
“I saw a poster for the auditions at school and decided to enter. I think I am the only one from school who will be auditioning in LA.”
The youngster’s parents, Lee-Ann and Kevin, are excited for her and told Express she had always been passionate about singing and music.
“There will be different talent agencies and scouts. It will be great for her to showcase her talents in front of such a crowd. We hope she will be spotted and receive a good contract,” said Kevin, a proud father.
Lee-Ann agreed and said, “This is a great opportunity for Kiara. She has always been interested in music and started off with dancing. She used to dance for Big Bounce Studios before it closed down and entered many dance competitions.”
The Croydon resident came second for her slow dance piece at the ADA Dance American competition, among others. She shared that her biggest passion among the four disciplines was singing.
“I love music and singing and I am honoured to work with my vocal coach Yemu Matiba, who is one of the best,” said Kiara.
“My inspirations include Michael Jackson, Queen, Diana Ross and Lionel Richie. I used to like modern-day music but not anymore. I am not sure what happened but I am not into it anymore.
“I am definitely into rock and roll and I love Queen’s fashion sense. I want to be the queen of pop and become successful in the music industry like Michael Jackson.”
Kiara will be leaving for the week-long competition in July and she needs sponsorship.
“We need to cover flights, accommodation and entry fees, among other things,” said Lee-Ann.
“We are looking at R160 000 for the entire trip. We would welcome any sponsorship that would contribute towards her taking advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
