More than 500 people gathered at Rhodes University’s Barratt One lecture theatre to see ambitious ‘Idols’ contestants sing their hearts out on Saturday.
More than 500 people gathered at Rhodes University’s Barratt One lecture theatre to see ambitious ‘Idols’ contestants sing their hearts out on Saturday.
Although no more seats were available, people insisted on coming in and standing on any available space.
The ‘Idols’ competition was hosted by Founder’s Hall as part of the Dean of Students’ Alcohol-Free Challenge.
Twelve contestants, one after the other, gave their best performances, receiving extremely loud cheers from the enthusiastic audience.
Talent, entertainment and fun were some of the requirements for the judges’ star-searching list. After hearing a few songs, the audience and the judges were blown away by beautiful voices, the likes of which they had never heard before.
"Britney Spears might have talent,” said Rob Benyon, “but Rhodes University also has talent." Benyon, who is a tutor manager at Rhodes’ Information Systems department, was one of the judges at the competition.
Joining him was Vivian de Klerk, the Dean of Students. "We want good music and the x-factor," said De Klerk and Benyon. The host was Isaac Monama, whose humorous character added to the entertainment.
The audience responded to the contestants’ performances by either booing, beating on tables, shouting out names or, for the best, providing standing ovations.
While trying to hide their nervousness, some contestants said things like: "Please enjoy the show". Sikho Mgweba, a first year music student, won the competition after performing Josh Groban’s “You raise me up”.
She indeed raised the audience up, as they gave her a standing ovation. Another exceptionally talented singer was Nicky Mclean who performed Jennifer Holiday’s ‘Give us this day’, which also received a standing ovation.
A diva duo, Mabocha Mokobane and Lesego Kgatitswe, calling themselves “Single Ladies” wrapped up the show with an old-time South African favourite: Brenda Fassie’s ‘Weekend Special’.
Prizes for the top four contestants included R300 and R200 in vouchers for first place; R200 and R150 in vouchers for second; R100 and R100 in vouchers for third; and R100 in vouchers for fourth place.
