The annual talent show assembly concluded the winter season yesterday afternoon at the Keōpūolani Hale. This assembly kicked off with acknowledging winter sports for their valiant efforts. Athletes from various sports gathered on the stage for a picture.
Then it was time for the main course: the talent show. This portion began with the band M.A.R.S featuring sophomores Malia Kim and Avery Pendergraft, freshman Roah Mau, and junior Sophia Angel Long. Their band name cleverly spells Mars using their initials.
They started the event with a cover of “Falling Behind” by Laufey. Their cover brought the song’s jazzy undertones to life. Malia Kim and Sophia Angel Long’s singing harmonized well with the guitar and keyboard’s playful tune. The song was a sweet and refreshing opening.
Sophomore Malia Kim said that it takes a lot of commitment to uphold the expectations of the talent show.
“In order to prepare for the talent show, my group has practiced every single day, pretty much. We put in a lot of work. And even some of our friends helped us with setting up the equipment and everything; this is a group,” she said.
Subsequently the duo Grapefruit, seniors Mila Poaipuni and Archer Fabrao, performed “Beggin’” by Måneskin, delivering a fierce
cover. Their style alternated between the singers with compelling vocals and even included a rap segment by Mila Poaipuni.
Senior Archer Fabrao views the talent show as an experience to make the most out of her senior year.
“I decided to do the talent show because it’s me and my best friend’s last year. It would be nice to join it, and just have a little bit of fun,” she said.
The next person to take the stage was Kaʻimi Kekumu, dedicating his song to God. Kekumu, who sang along with Phil Wickham’s “Follow the Light.” His act was admired by the crowd and motivated the audience to flash their phones back and forth in reaction to the touching message.
Following, seniors Arieanna Lawrence and Nicholas Miguel, known by their aliases of Nicki Minaj and Arieanna Grande, lip synced to “Since U Been Gone” by Kelly Clarkson. This act was light-hearted and comedic. They captured the spectators by offering roses to the crowd. Their performance was a perfect way to mix up the afternoon.
Afterwards, Nā Leo o Maʻo, a band of proud representatives from the sophomore class of 2028, consisting of Raecen Velez, Kaʻikena Guzman, Zaiyah Madamba Barrozo, Kamaʻehumaikalani Kealoha, and Kaleb Loke, stunned the audience with their musicality. These bright sophomores entertained the viewers with the song “Nothing to Hide” by Rebel Soulijahz. Bringing life to a classic reggae song, their incorporation of various instruments created a groovy atmosphere.
Last year’s talent show winners were the final act. Mixed Plate, a band formed by seniors Makoa Puaʻoi, Jaren Merrit, Daniel Mauliola, and Kaimalino Katjang executed “Honey Girl,” performed an adaptation of the song “Naughty Girl” by Fiji. Their adaptation was lively and even encouraged the crowd to interact; several students felt the rhythm and gathered to dance. Mixed Plate’s stage presence was incredibly substantial. The production was a captivating and sensational representation of the reggae genre.
Giving the awards for this year’s KSM talent show was no easy decision. There were several brilliant contestants. For the judges’ choice results, Kaʻimi Kekumu captured third place for his faithful cover. Following, in second place, Nā Leo o Maʻo struck the judges with their expertise. Overall, Mixed Plate seized the victory again as longstanding contestants of the talent show. As for the people’s choice award, Nā Leo o Maʻo was selected, an honor for the sophomore class.
This year’s talent show made an impression; each contestant put in a vast amount of effort. It was a triumphant finish to Whoopcoming week, otherwise known as Spring Spirit Week.
The talent show is the ideal event for KSM students to unite as a student body.
“This is significant to me, because my whole life, I grew up singing, and playing music, and I’m using it to spread joy in school,” Makoa Puaʻoi said.
