Nothing says Skylemar more than The Talent Show.
32 brave performers, some with talent, and some not so much. No matter what, the audience cheers wildly after each act.
The rain brought us into the Rec Hall, with the Seniors and Stars in the back of the room. They’re the ones who carry on the tradition and set the tone: performers first, audience second. With or without talent, those on the stage are shown respect and support. Even if it’s a magic trick that no one can see…
First up was Jagger, who asked for two volunteers. That’s the cue for just about everyone to raise their hands straight up and give the “Oooh oooh” noises that annoy teachers. The volunteers blindfolded him and he painted abstract art.
Ethan V dazzled us with his breakdancing. Seeing him beam with pride at the end was the very best part. Xander danced as well, and also shared the “how to’s” with everyone. Keith O did a dance dressed as a hotdog. Charlie P juggled, and Jacob W played the drums. Both were super cool!
Nolan B sang “Raise Me Up”, and Luke P sang “Old Town Road”. Hayes dedicated his performance of “As It Was” to his mom. Carter S sang “Panini”, and JJ did a freestyle rap based on the color green.
Sprinkled in throughout the real talent were those who, shall we say, were more “artistically creative”. KJ contorted his body into a bridge and walked backwards. Brooks did imitations of Kermit the Frog and Mickey Mouse. Palmer did his version of Forrest Gump, Homer Simpson and Tom Cruise. Oliver G drew a picture called “Plateau Sunset”. Magicians were Luke BR, Bronner, Eli W and Barron.
What’s a talent show without marshmallow tossing? Max P and Asher covered that. Nate C rolled around in a bongo bag (we told you they were handy), while Iggy, Max and Pelayo juggled a soccer ball. Isaac F swallowed a sword, which was actually quite impressive.
There were skits we didn’t understand but laughed just the same. Afterall, the performers were having a blast up there. Sawyer, Dash, Henry G and Palmer’s skit was called “Boxing Comedy”. Ryder and Ainsley put on “Epic Fails”.
Bennett S and Henry Z can burp like you wouldn’t believe. Henry is even capable of speaking while doing this. Most extraordinary was Lionel, who has a full repertoire of armpit farts. Oh, to live at a boy’s camp...
Fourteen-year-old Kyle YA once again truly blew us away with his dance moves, as he has for the past few years. His performance of “Beat It” would make Michael Jackson proud. He might just have what it takes to be professional some day.
Those who played the piano really do have tremendous talent. Asher, Azim and Charlie L each played beautifully.
The one who made his camp director tear up in emotion was Matthew R. He played “Piano Man” as if he’d practiced for months. The special part came when Matthew began singing the verses into the microphone. He took over the room with his strong voice, and everyone responded with the chorus. The kids waved their arms in the air and swayed back and forth. It was one of those many Skylemar moments to cherish forever.
