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One of National Black Theatre
Festival Founder Larry Leon
Hamlin's many legacies is his
embracing and fostering of young talent.
Introducing young people to - and
indoctrinating them into - the richness
and beauty of black theatre was a mission
he pursued throughout his life. His N.C.
Black Repertory Co. regularly staged
special performances for schools and
youth groups; he saw through the creation
of the Black Reps Teen Ensemble before
his death in 2007; and he planted the seeds
of the National Youth Talent Showcase,
a permanent component of the NBTF
that gives up-and-coming performers
the chance to be judged by notables and
shine before a crowd of hundreds.
Tomorrows stars are gearing up for
this year's showcase, which is being
coordinated by Dr. Stephanie "Asabi"
Howard, a noted director, actress
and N.C. Central University professor. A
nationwide call for talent went out several months
ago. Would-be participants had to submit a videotaped snippet of them singing,
dancing, acting, reciting poetry or entertaining in some other form. The best and
brightest will be invited to compete during a two-day showcase. Celebrity judges
will critique the performers after they do their thing before what is typically a
packed house.
The family friendly event has grown in popularity, thanks, in part, to the high
level of talent. Standing ovations are frequent, and many alumni of the Showcase
have gone on to
acclaim, including
Alyssa White, who
has been featured on
Best of the Best show
on "Showtime at the
Apollo," and Qaasim
Middleton, who had a
stellar run on the last
season of "American
Idol." ?
National Youth
Talent Showcase
Benton
Convention
Center - North
Main Hall
Thurs, Aug. 6 12 p.m.
Fri, Aug. 4 12 p.m.
$11
Young dancers perform at the 2009 festival.