By Amanda Bazil
A myriad of performances lit up the night at “Blaze the Stage” hosted by the Student Programming Council of Biscayne Bay Campus on Tues, Feb. 27, revealing the talent that lies at the University.
“Blaze the Stage” was a chance for students to put themselves out there and present their passions boldly, a fear not too many students who dream of making it in the industry can muster the courage to do.
Out of 30 students who auditioned, 14 were selected to compete for a chance to land an entertainment internship with one of the celebrity judges, Rich Dollaz, Theo Brown and DJ Mauricio.
The event took place at the Mary Ann Wolfe Theatre. Doors opened at 6:30 p.m. and once the show started, not an empty seat was in the house.
“It’s important for kids to be a part of events like this. I actually met J. Cole like this,” said Theo Brown, one of the judges. “He was the president of SGA at his college and when I saw him performed I knew he had what it takes. Events like this help out a lot so take advantage of them whenever you can.”
Maalik PapaSimbi, a senior studying environmental sciences, opened the show with a traditional Haitian Vodou Prayers piece that involved drumming and singing. Malik chose the piece because its spiritual significance in Haitian culture.
“My culture has been viewed so negatively by the world around us, even by us Haitians. Any time I have an opportunity to destroy these negative stereotypes about Haitian culture, I seize it,” said Maalik.
Nicholas Augustin, better known by his stage name Asthmatic, went next and was one of the first of eight rappers to perform with an original piece.
Many of the rappers had authentic content over the instrumentals of today’s most popular tracks and hyped the crowd. Stories of hustling for success or just wanting to enjoy life were the messages within their music.
The singing acts were no less disappointing. Nine women covered songs from soulful artists like India Arie to hip-hop and R&B legend Lauryn Hill.
Aspiring songstress, Vivian Vallarino-Reyes, a junior majoring in Communications and Digital Media, won first place. She performed an acoustic version of Britney Spears, “Toxic.” While she accepted her certificate, it was announced that she will also be performing at this year’s Bayfest in April.
“Well I was happy obviously, but a little shocked,” said Vivian. “There were so many talented people performing, but I was happy that I was talented enough to impress the judges and win first place.”
Second and third place runner ups Roojerry Dangervil, a senior majoring in communications, and Ashley Rosales-Pejeda, a sophomore majoring in international business. Both runner-ups will not be interning with either judge but will perform at Bayfest as well.
Roojerry remembers how thrilled he felt when he found out he’d be a part of the performance line-up.
“I was so ecstatic,” said Roojerry. “That’s such a huge platform, and I’m just excited to be able to spread my message and increase awareness to an even broader audience.”
As for Rosales-Pejeda, the opportunity of a lifetime still doesn’t feel real.
“Honestly, it hasn’t even sunk in yet,” said Rosales-Pejeda. “I’ll be performing (at Bayfest) in front of so many people so it’s a lot of pressure but I’m super excited.”
Although the students took a great step toward their future careers, there is still a long path toward finding success, according to judge DJ Mauricio.
“To put it short, in the industry, you’ll get a million no’s before you get a yes. And this is not an easy thing. It’s a 24-hour job and you’ve got to work on your craft, work towards something,” says the Miami DJ. “As an artist, if you’re not willing to come show up somewhere last minute and not willing to get up and move, go out and get a nine to five.”
Rich Dollaz urges people to go back to the basic values we’re taught growing up that will ultimately help you achieve success. And DJ Mauricio agrees with Rich’s comment, but includes a piece of his own reminding students that dedication and consistency are key.
“Obviously the game has changed a lot and it’s more social media driven, but some things will never change and that’s paying attention, listening, and following your heart,” said DJ Mauricio.
Throughout the night, each judge constantly commented on how diverse the talents at the University were, emphasizing the unique qualities each student had.
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