Naha Regal Choir wins big with $15k cash prize and a record deal in the SAY! Choir Competition recently held in Honiara.
The Naha Regal Choir has soared to victory in the inaugural Sing Above Yourself (SAY!) Choir Competition, securing not only a hefty $15,000 cash prize but also an exclusive recording deal and the chance to create a music video for their outstanding performance.
The groundbreaking choral showdown, orchestrated by Dreamcast Theatre Solomon Islands, concluded with a thrilling grand finale on Sunday evening.
Facing off in a gripping musical duel at the Dreamcast Arts Hub, the Naha Regal Choir, along with the Central Islands Province Choir and the K2 Family Choir, emerged as the top three finalists from an initial pool of 23 contenders. Their journey encompassed surviving two elimination rounds and a rigorous audition stage held last month.
Each finalist had to showcase their vocal prowess by presenting two original compositions and an inventive rendition of Dreamcast’s “This Is Our Time” track – a special song crafted for the upcoming 2023 Pacific Games and set for release before the Opening Ceremony.
An impartial panel of three judges – Jonathan Auna, Sherri Komasi, and Alfred Saba – diligently scored the performances.
Sending out warm congratulations to the Naha Regal Choir and all participating vocal groups, Joey Manemaka, Dreamcast Artistic Director and SAY! Choir Competition Coordinator, expressed, “This first-of-its-kind event turns everyone involved – from participants and spectators to our dedicated Dreamcast team – into true winners.”
He continued, “Every choir group, those who joined from the start, have left their mark as pioneers of this thrilling initiative. We applaud your tireless rehearsal efforts, your commitment to being the best version of yourselves, and your willingness to showcase your incredible talents.”
Choir teams that partook in the SAY! Choir Competition included: Agape Choir, Central Islands Province Choir, Jericho 2 Choir, K2 Family Choir, Naha Regal Choir, Saint Nicholas Anglican School Choir, and Transfiguration Vura Parish Choir.
Joey also confirmed the competition’s return for future editions.
As for the runner-ups, the Central Islands Province Choir and the K2 Family Choir walked away with generous cash prizes of $3,000 and $2,000 respectively. In addition to their victory, the Naha Regal Choir will enjoy a recording deal and a professionally crafted music video, courtesy of Dreamcast.
Dreamcast Theatre extends heartfelt gratitude to its partners for their unwavering support.
Dreamcast Theatre Solomon Islands, a youth-led, art-focused organization in the Solomon Islands, strives to spark inspiration among artists through challenges, foster meaningful conversations, and cultivate ideas that contribute to the improvement of society.
Source: Dreamcast Theatre
