Youngsters stage super show for special night

Apr 9 2009 by Shirley Bartynek, Hamilton Advertiser

MUSICALLY-gifted pupils from schools across the county played a starring role as they highlighted the 'Super' aspect of the Lanarkshire Supershow 2009.

Around 200 talented teenagers from 17 schools across the county were warmly applauded as they played a starring role in making the 12th annual Supershow an outstanding success.

The annual showcase of music and dance was again organised by New Lanarkshire Ltd (Supercounty) and sponsored by M&Ds Scotland's Theme Park.

Guitarist Ross Munro, from Hamilton College, entertained with his vibrant interpretation of 'Glasgow kiss', while singer Lucy McAvoy from Holy Cross High School opted for 'May it be'.

St Aidan's High School in Wishaw were represented by Natasha Stewart who sang 'There you'll be', and Ryan Hardie who sang 'Valerie’.

Pianist Tom Timmons from Cardinal Newman High School, in Bellshill, performed 'Allegro Assai' with great skill.

In the second act, Nicole McWhinnie from Dalziel High School, in Motherwell, sang 'Angel', while Rachel Oates from Taylor High School, in Motherwell was given the honour of closing the show with her rendition of 'Popular'.

The Show Choir from Strathaven Academy performed 'Radio Ga Ga', violinist Heather MacLeod played 'Czàrdàs', Amy Knox sang 'Killing me softly with his song', and Iain Crawford played 'a toe-tapping' selection on the bagpipes.

Supercounty chairman Ian Livingstone said: "Supershow 2009 was another wonderful musical showcase for Lanarkshire - the emerging talent we have here in this super county of ours is quite stunning.

"The young people combined ability, presentation and confidence to perform to a very high standard to win over an audience of almost 1000 people.

"We at Supercounty are striving to encourage that positive 'can do' approach - and nurture that confidence which we hope in later life will stand them in good stead in whatever career they pursue."

Compere Michelle McManus whose musical career was fashioned at a Lanarkshire school said that she was extremely impressed by the standards.

Michelle added: "I loved working with these young people - they were so upbeat and showed so much talent, style and confidence.

“It was a great night, a great show, and I was absolutely delighted to be asked to be part."

Matthew Taylor, Director of M&Ds said: "Many performers at previous 'Supershows' have gone on to bigger and better things and I'm sure some of this cast will certainly do that."