Performing artists from across the region came together at the Jindabyne Memorial Hall on Saturday night to compete in the sixth annual Jindy Idol. Kahli Henley opened the night with a beautiful rendition of Elton John’s Your Song. Dozens of terrific performances followed. The audience held its breath as Tulli Oayda sang Butterfly Fly Away; and more than a few tears were shed as six-year-old Isabella Ward delivered A Thousand Years.
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In the second act, Kesha Oayda delivered a clever, soulful, kid-friendly version of Johnny Cash’s Folsom Prison Blues; and fencing contractor Michael Sier (Cooma) earned a standing ovation and the People’s Choice award with a stirring version of This Is the Moment from Jeckyll and Hyde.
Judges Loren Hunter (Rent, Wicked), Shaun Rennie (Rent, Wicked), and Jindabyne’s own Tim Draxl provided every performer with constructive criticism to improve their performances. Rennie emphasized the importance of diction, while Hunter reminded artists to fully engage with their material. All of the judges heaped praise on the performers, remarking on the scale and diversity of talent in the room.
The night’s clear winner was 13-year-old dancer Brady Jones. The Bombala dancer bewitched the audience – and the judges – with the dramatic Permanent. The flawless performance earned Brady $600 in prize money and the title of Jindy Idol 2016.
Jindy Idol is the Tim Draxl Performing Arts Fund’s major annual fundraiser. TDF’s mission is to link young people in the Snowy Mountains with opportunities to perform and improve their skills. The Fund offers a range of workshops and master classes with industry professionals each year.