On the 27th March, an interesting event took place in Chelsea, at Worlds End Place. Named the ‘Chelsea Youth Festival,’ it did exactly what the name suggested in giving a platform for anyone aged 13 to 19 to demonstrate their talent. This showcase was the highlight of an interesting and free day, which provided food, exhibitions and workshops. Being held outside the piazza of the Chelsea Theatre, it was very accessible to the public and there were many people who came and went between 1pm and 5pm, the duration of the event. Much excitement came from the prize which was offered to whoever went on to win the aforementioned talent show. It involved winning a trip to Amsterdam for a Dance and Music week with other talented youths both English and Dutch.

The acts, which entered the contest, displayed a wide range of talent. There were singers, rappers and one break-dancer that gave the afternoon quite an urban feel. People gathered together in groups to put on a show and there were many soloists as well who all did very well. It was, evidently, the extreme public nature of the event, which added to the nervousness of some of the young performers, who belted songs out to viewers and passers-by. The eventual lucky winner, turned out to be a local boy, Conner, who sang excellently and gathered the most votes at the end of the competition from the people watching. Throughout the day, there were also acts not partaking in the talent show including DJs and bands that were simply there to provide entertainment.

This youth festival, which was run by Chelsea Youth Club, Earl’s Court Youth Club, and the East Chelsea Youth Club with help from the New International Company of Live Arts (N.I.C.O.L.A.), was highly enjoyable and certainly provided something for everyone. It had promised to entertain people of all ages and I believe that with the range of music, food, and workshops it definitely delivered on that front. It was a good effort by all and congratulations to the winner of the contest!