America's Got Talent-The Back Stories

Claire Luna-Pinsker
"America's Got Talent," is racing to it's finale with another batch of talented dreamers hoping to head straight to Vegas for their premiere star production. Piers Morgan is quickly hitting his buzzer along with Sharon Osbourne and Howie Mandel as time runs out for these contestants.

Overall the acts on, "America's Got Talent," are mainly talented singers, tricky magicians, and quick stepping dancers, with a sprinkling of the unique and original. These are acts we've seen in the past on, "America's Got Talent," except for different faces, and a few original exceptions. Most of America's citizens have individual dreams, though they're not fulfilled by being on, "America's Got Talent."

What I prefer to learn from this show is what are the individual dreams and reasons contestants make the decision to audition for, "America's Got Talent?" What are these contestant's back stories? "America's Got Talent," contestants on this 2010 run share interesting back stories. I share a few of my favorites.

Personally, first and foremost is a middle-aged woman named, Alice Tan Ridley, with a powerful full-spirited voice. You probably are aware she's the mother of, Gabourey Sidibe, an actress who debuted in the movie, "Precious." Alice Tan Ridley has an interesting musical back story, from her previous job as a school teacher, having performed around the world, and having shared her voice by singing in the New York City subway platforms. Alice is ready to further her love for music and advance her career, hoping to win, "America's Got Talent."

Christina and Ali are two sisters, a singing duo, both diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis. The power of these two sister's voices harmonizing with their inspirational songs will teach you that obstacles can be conquered if you share a love and a dream. If you don't shed a tear when you hear them sing, you're heartless.

Michael Grimm, is an excellent singer and guitar player, somewhat reminding me of last year's winner, Kevin Skinner, in the manner of his demeanor, meek and quiet. But when Michael Grimm opens his mouth and sings with such a stirring soulful voice, all sense of shyness dissipates. Michael hopes his winning, "America's Got Talent," will financially help him to assist his grandparents who lost everything in hurricane Katrina. His grandmother encouraged his musical talent.

Connor Doran, is a unique individual. Connor is a seventeen year old young man diagnosed with a seizure disorder. He picked up kite flying, finding it a way to induce relaxation about two years ago. He's introduced indoor kite flying with his homemade kites by setting his kite flying to music in a brilliant graceful dance. You have to see Connor light up as he performs his act conquering his challenges.

Haspop, a hip hop dancer was raised in a Muslim family, a religion where dancing is strictly forbidden. He started boxing but gravitated to dancing, becoming a popping champion and later joining Cirque Du Soleil. His joy for dancing had to overcome the challenges of informing his father what he's chosen to do with his life.

Fighting Gravity, are a black light creative illusion dance act, formed by students from Virginia Tech. Fighting Gravity, was formed in 2009 with their first show benefitting, Service for Sight, a local group assisting visual impaired residents. Fighting Gravity, hopes to offer inspiration with their creative act, and also represent a positive image for their college by being on, "America's Got Talent."

ArcAttack, are a group of geeks who have combined science and music together in an electrifying performance using arcs of electricity moving to synchronized music. Geeks can be entertaining.

A young angel named, Jackie Evancho, took my breath away with her classical opera voice. A ten year old sweet girl with a girlish speaking voice knocks you over when she sings with a mature voice of a trained opera singer. Jackie Evancho is on her way, and doesn't need to win, America's Got Talent, to fly because she has a global talent gift.

Prince Poppy Cock, ends my list of favorites. He was always considered an outsider as a youth. His artistic characteristics and amazing pop opera voice will win you over. Prince Poppy Cock designs his own costumes, dressing in colorful royal grandeur as he performs using his musical artistry.

"America's Got Talent," allows a contestant to shine or falter, allowing America to select who they believe represents the best talent. I believe contestant's back stories make a difference in how they shine.

You can view other, "America's Got Talent," contestant's back stories, videos and further info about the show, judges and host, by clicking on the link below.

http://www.nbc.com/americas-got-talent/

The End

Published by Claire Luna-Pinsker

I'm an author and writer, retired pediatric nurse, mother and wife, educated in the school of life. I started writing stories using spelling words in elementary school. My teacher's encouragement helped deve...  View profile

5 Comments

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  • Claire Luna-Pinsker9/14/2010

    Update. Tonite's the final four, and I've chosen all four as my top in the season.

  • Nancy Tracy8/25/2010

    Loved learning all these back stories. I haven't followed the show this summer, but that is the part I always enjoy the most, too. Great writing, BTW.

  • Michele Starkey8/25/2010

    Wonderfully done, Claire :) cheers!

  • Lee Hansen8/25/2010

    Claire you did an excellent job on this. The story of Alice Tan Ridley is so unique. The two sisters with CF is also another touching story offering hope to those struggling with obstacles and not giving up. They are all unique and most I think would represent America well.

  • Roy A. Barnes8/25/2010

    I don't get into talent shows....I don't like hearing the back stories. They should just perform and not bring personal lives into it....like the ol' "Gong Show".

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