Jackson Prep’s annual talent show, sponsored by Applause, was held on Monday April 15. The theme, A Star is Born, was inspired by the movie of the same name which was released 2018. 

Mr. Mitchell McGinnis and Ms. Jessica Wilkinson, who were the MCs for the evening, opened the show by singing a duet of the song “Shallow”, which features prominently in the  movie A Star is Born. Following the duet, the junior high acts performed. The senior high performers followed the junior high. In previous years, prizes were given for categories as well as overall first, second, and third place. These categories included instrumental, vocal soloists, duets, and variety. However, this year, due to the fewer number of performers, the only prizes offered were first and second place for the junior high and first, second, and third place for the senior high. After the student performers, Mr. McGinnis and Ms. Temperance Jones closed out the show with a medley of songs from all the musicals they have been a part of directing at Prep. The judges had not yet completed their deliberations when Mr. McGinnis and Ms. Jones finished their performance, so all of the performers were brought out on stage and some were asked to share interesting facts about themselves. 

Finally, the awards were announced. Teddie Carroll was named junior high crowd favorite for her performance of “Hallelujah.” Mary Robinson Coco was named first place winner of the junior high for singing “Requiem” from Dear Evan Hansen. The second place winner was a trio made up of Anna Kellum, Macy Polk, and Rachel Reagan, who sang “Golden Hour.” The senior high first place winner was Matt Gross, who played“Isn’t She Lovely” by Stevie Wonder on his bass guitar. Walker Jay Patterson took home second place, singing “I Love Betsy.” Mary Noble Howard was named senior high crowd favorite and third place overall for the two handmade dresses that she showcased. Mary Noble said she was “really proud to get to show her talent among so many other talented people and to see the things Jackson Prep students can do outside the classroom.” 

The talent show was once again a hit among parents, students, and faculty. It was a chance for students to show the community what skills they have outside of school and enjoy performing in a fun environment among their peers.

Watch Matt Gross’ winning performance below!