Young Talent Shines at 25th Talent Exposition of the Arts

By Catherine Tyson-Sewell, MSW

Photos by AJ Conolly Photography

Twenty-five years on, the Talent Exposition of the Arts continues to inspire, and the future of Cayman’s performing arts has never looked brighter.

Celebrating its 25th anniversary under the theme “Hope,” this year’s Talent Exposition of the Arts brought together an outstanding lineup of emerging and established performers for an evening of music, dance, poetry, theatre, and instrumental performances. On Sunday June 28th at the Harquail Theatre, the annual showcase once again proved why it has become one of Cayman’s most anticipated cultural events. Under the visionary direction of JC Connor, CEO and founder of the new self-help foundation, the programme delivered another unforgettable celebration of local talent.

The evening opened with veteran performer Jason DaCosta, whose presence on the local entertainment scene spans decades. Now serving as a board member of the New Self Help Foundation, DaCosta was joined by his children in a heartwarming performance that paid tribute to a remarkable musical legacy. The performance evoked memories of his father, Cardinal DaCosta, one of the Cayman Islands’ pioneering recording artists, renowned for his vocals, guitar and harmonica playing, and best known for the regional hit Pieces of Eight. Following in his father’s footsteps, Jason captivated the audience with a beautifully delivered rendition of Gramps Morgan’s A Woman Like You, setting the tone for an evening filled with exceptional Caymanian talent.

From that point forward, the performances flowed seamlessly. Singing, dancing, acting and instrumental music followed one after another, leaving scarcely a dull moment throughout the evening. Hosted by Lloyd Barker, who delighted the audience with One in a Million You, and Annika Jefferson, whose stirring rendition of the National Song set a patriotic tone, the programme maintained its energy from beginning to end.

Anyone familiar with JC Connor knows that this annual production is the culmination of an entire year’s work spent discovering and nurturing talent from every corner of the Cayman Islands. Each summer, he provides young performers with an opportunity to shine, and this year’s lineup demonstrated that the future of Caymanian arts is in exceptionally capable hands.

The evening’s theme, “Hope,” was perfectly embodied by gospel rap duo Jaylin Johnson and Drayson Dacosta. Their energetic performance rivalled that of international artists while delivering a powerful Christian message that made the audience proud to witness two young Caymanian men using their gifts to inspire others.

Dance featured prominently throughout the programme. Bailamos Dance Studio showcased a series of lively routines blending hip-hop, modern dance and ballet before concluding with an energetic World Cup-inspired finale that brought colour and excitement to the stage. The UCCI Dance Company was equally impressive, presenting fluid choreography that beautifully combined movement, rhythm and storytelling. Their four outstanding performances added elegance and variety to the evening.

The vocal performances were equally memorable. Kayla Pendergast captivated the audience with her smooth, jazz café-style vocals, while Leah GC impressed with her remarkable vocal strength and stage presence. Jamis Foster and Joseph Dixon-Barralaga, representing the John Gray Performing Arts programme, delivered one of the evening’s standout performances with soaring vocals accompanied by exceptional piano work, creating what felt like a mini concert within the show.

Michelle T offered a refreshing and original interpretation of Adele’s Hello, while Moniesa Farquharson delivered a heartfelt rendition of Alabaster Box, reminding the audience that beauty, grace and talent often coexist effortlessly. Cayman Music School also presented a striking performance of Ex-Wives, featuring strong harmonies and confident performances from the talented all-female ensemble.

Drama once again played a significant role in the production. Trained actress Caitlin Tyson brought her trademark musical theatre flair to the stage alongside Maria Marland in a dynamic performance from Wicked. As Elphaba, complete with her iconic green makeup, Tyson delivered powerful vocals opposite Marland’s enchanting Glinda, transporting the audience straight into the magical world of Oz.

Iyania Powell showcased impressive operatic ability with a selection from The Phantom of the Opera, while another memorable theatrical moment came with a scene from The Colored Museum, featuring the famous talking wigs. The humorous yet slightly eerie performance had the audience delightfully questioning whether the voices truly belonged to the wigs themselves.

One of the evening’s biggest showstoppers came from El Barrio, whose cast of more than 15 performers brought the house down with an energetic presentation of 96,000. Combining dynamic choreography, acting and outstanding vocals, the performance earned one of the loudest ovations of the night.

Spoken word also found its place within the programme. Johanah O’Connor delivered a thoughtful spoken-word performance, while Nickela Davis presented her original poem, Depression, with sincerity and emotional depth.

Instrumental performances continued to showcase the diversity of talent on display. Dequan Smith presented a graceful cello and piano duet FranMcconvey, while newcomer Alejandro Lemus impressed with a lively saxophone rendition of Pharrell Williams’ Happy. His effortless musicianship had the audience tapping their feet and dancing along as his saxophone seemed to sing with every note.

Singer-songwriter Yohann Fitzgerald performed two original compositions that highlighted both his distinctive voice and songwriting ability, leaving little doubt that he is destined for even greater accomplishments.

Throughout the evening, the audience experienced a range of emotions—joy, hope, love, pain, triumph and reflection. Every performance strengthened the connection between artist and audience, leaving many wishing the programme could continue long after the final curtain. Thanks to Sophie Conolly Stage Manager

Adding to the excitement was Cayman’s own entertainer Rico Rolando, whose charismatic performance encouraged young people to remain focused, positive and hopeful while pursuing their dreams.

Every act reflected the remarkable depth of artistic talent within the Cayman Islands, and together they created an evening that truly lived up to its theme. Hope was more than simply the title of this year’s production it was evident in every performer who stepped onto the stage.

As the curtains closed on the 25th Talent Exposition of the Arts, the audience left inspired, uplifted and reminded that the performing arts remain one of the community’s most powerful platforms for developing young talent. If there was one disappointment, it was knowing that we must wait another year before experiencing the magic all over again.