Performers have their eyes set on New York
Thirteen performers of Mpumalanga have recently been selected to participate in the International Modelling and Talent Agency (IMTA) Convention in New York next year.
The 13 artists, who are from Mbombela, Sabie, Lydenburg and Hazyview, competed and have impressed the seven international judges enough to be chosen to showcase their talent abroad in July 2022.
The artists, who participate in acting, singing, dancing and modelling, participated in the International Arts Talent Showcase Auditions in September at Silver Star Casino Hotel in Krugersdorp. Among the judges were IMTA board member Joey Hunter and vice president of Modewire, Nate Butler, who is also an American songwriter, music producer, vocal producer, and recording artist based in Atlanta, Georgia. Subsequently they were selected to represent South Africa in America.
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“This is indeed a huge achievement for our entire talented group of artists, as the IMTA Convention is the largest talent showcase in America, which allows talented individuals and models to showcase their talent in acting, singing, dancing and modelling,” said Ilze van der Merwe of Ramp-to-Runway, without whom it would not have been possible.
The 13 performers are Dante Gerber (17), Wandisa Simelane (15), Jenna Botha (16), Hope Faye (18), Karli Ackermann (13), Samuel Sitoe (16), Monica Viljoen (13), Veronica de Vasconcelos (15), Nqobile Mtshali (15), Themba Mthembu (34), Nokwanda Shabangu (18), Valencia Maphosa (14) and Rodney Haywood (49).The performers are now all working hard to raise enough money to attend the special event. Gerber, who participates in dancing, acting and modelling, said her dream was to become a professional dancer.
“I want to tell people who I am through my dance. I want to tell a story through my dance.”
Wandisa, who lives in Lydenburg, was also afforded a scholarship by the American Musical and Dramatic Academy in New York.
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“I’ve always wanted to go to America. Acting and doing fashion shows in America is such a great achievement. This means a lot to me, and I am ready to put in the hard work.” Nqobile, an aspiring fashion model and actor, said her dream was to positively influence her world through fashion and entertainment. “I believe going to America will afford me opportunity to obtain an international education which will enhance my positive contribution to my world.”
The IMTA Convention in New York will be from July 10 to 15, 2022.
For enquiries, or if you want to become a sponsor, phone Ilze on 082 920 2031.
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