FORT RUCKER, Ala., August 18, 2011 -- Rockin' Rucker's top 12 finalists competed in the second round of the talent competition before vocal ensemble Committed performed Saturday at the post theater.
A panel of judges, including a member of Committed, judged the top 12 and announced the final eight contestants on Monday. The finalists will perform in the final round at Lake Party Luau Aug. 27, 6 p.m. at Lake Tholocco.
The night of entertainment, provided by Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers and Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation, was an exciting opportunity for the contestants and crowd, and this year's Rockin' Rucker's competition offers many different talents, said Brian Jackson, DFMWR delivery system program manager.
"The top 12 acts that we have this year are very good. They all have a variety of different styles. It's not just vocal soloists. There's a dance act, instrumental soloists, a band, and even spoken word artist. The variety is higher than last year."
One unique Rockin' Rucker's act is Spc. Brendon Patten, 1st Battalion, 11th Aviation Regiment, who performed his original poem "Our World" at Saturday's semifinals. Patten entered the competition after noticing that a poet had not been in the previous competition.
"I wasn't even going to be in the contest, but I saw there was no poetry represented," he said. Patten was glad to participate, but also enjoyed seeing the other acts and Committed perform. "I like seeing talent and performances. It's good that we're provided stuff like this."
Other performers were also grateful for the opportunity to showcase their talents to the Fort Rucker community.
"Since I came into the military, I had to leave (performing) behind. When MWR gives us the opportunity to be in a show, it's a great way for those of us who volunteered to leave our talents behind to have fun," said Capt. Brandon Mace, 1st Aviation Brigade, who performed a crowd-pleasing version of "Me and Mrs. Jones" by Billy Paul.
The final eight includes vocal soloists Katy Johnson, Brandon Mace, Alan Wayne, Lynntesha Henley and Sara Isom, the band Mystery House, choreographer Marcel Harrison and spoken word artist Brendon Patten.
Audience participation is a category in the final round, so Jackson encouraged Family, friends and fans of the Rockin' Rucker's finalists to come out to Lake Party Luau to help decide the winner and enjoy an evening of fun.
"The top eight adds a different element to the luau that makes it a little more intriguing. What's also great about the final round of the talent show is while you're eating you can enjoy a good show,"
For more information on Rockin' Rucker's and Lake Party Luau, call 255-1749.
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