Ten Kansas City high school singers have been chosen as finalists for KC SuperStar, The J’s largest fundraiser supporting various programs and scholarships.
The top 10 singers were chosen before a crowd that gathered at The Lewis and Shirley White Theatre at The J by a three-judge panel of former SuperStar finalists Kate Cosentino, Anthony Fortino and John Long. The finalists are Aubree Smith (Lenexa, Kansas), Bennett Chapman (Liberty, Missouri), Brianna Frohning (Overland Park, Kansas), Corbin Newberry (Kansas City, Missouri), Faryn Clevenger (Lenexa), Jenna Holland (Kansas City), Leah Abai (Lenexa), Magdalena Nguyen (Overland Park), Mia Cabrera (Overland Park) and Rayna Key (Gladstone, Missouri).
“Thursday night’s crowd was treated to 21 talented high school singers,” said Tammy Ruder, producer of KC SuperStar. “Each of them shared their unique talents with the crowd cheering on. Ultimately, the judges had to narrow it down to 10 – not an easy task this year. I am excited to see the finalists hone their skills through this summer and then have an opportunity to shine at the finals.”
KC SuperStar finals will be held on Sunday, Aug. 25, at 7 p.m. in Yardley Hall at Johnson County Community College (12345 College Blvd., Overland Park, KS 66210). Saturday Night Live star Chloe Fineman will be the celebrity host and performer at the finals. Fineman is known for her impressions of stars such as Drew Barrymore, Britney Spears and Nicole Kidman. She has also appeared in several films and other TV shows on various streaming platforms.
Over the years, hundreds of teen singers from across the region have participated in KC SuperStar, and several competitors have continued to perform professionally. KC SuperStar provides over $22,000 in scholarships to the Top 10 finalists. In addition to a $10,000 scholarship for the winner, other singers will be awarded scholarships, including $5,000 for second place, $2,500 for third place, $1,000 for fourth place and $500 each for all other finalists.
As The J’s major fundraising event, KC SuperStar provides financial assistance to members so they can participate in its many services such as the Child Development Center, J Camp, health and fitness, the arts, as well as meals and transportation for The J’s Heritage, Lifelong Learning for Adults 55+. A portion of funds raised goes to The Reat Griffin Underwood Rising Stars Fund, which supports performing arts education and training programs for youth ages 14 to 21. Sponsorship opportunities are available; more information is available at thejkc.org/forms/support-the-j-s-annual-fundraiser-kc-superstar.
More information about KC SuperStar is available at kcsuperstar.org or facebook.com/kcsuperstar.