Kollaboration DC is one of many chapters of the non-profit organization Kollaboration, which seeks to empower Asian Americans pursuing artistic paths. A fellow Loyola alum, Shanika Jayakody, serves as Associate Director of the organization and invited me to come out to check out the showcase. I love music of all genres, so I really enjoyed myself!
Held at the F. Scott Fitzgerald Theatre in Rockville, MD on Saturday, August 8, the showcase featured upcoming artists from the DMV competing for a chance to advance to the Kollaboration STAR event in Los Angeles. The event was hosted by Adriel Luis, with guest performances from him, Sam Ock, and last year's competition winner Paradise. After scouting and audition artists in the area, it came down to six finalists: pianist Nan, music duo Santa Jaca, singer/pianist Abby Rose, singer/songwriter Alicia Rae, singer Audrey, and singing duo 2Parkz. The winner, announced that same night, will compete in LA against champions from other chapters across the country for a $10,000 grand prize! With this group of great talent, the judges, Tim Ma, Joe Kim, and Tanner Chung, definitely had a hard decision to make in determining this year's winner!
Check out a video recap of the competition below!
I had a great time at the show! There were definitely a lot of talented artists there, all passionate about music and performing. I also love Kollaboration's mission to truly assist Asian-Americans with their artistic pursuits, helping to build up their craft and confidence. Plus, if we're honest, the entertainment industry as a whole could definitely use more diversity!
Congratulations to this year's winner Audrey, as well as to all of the finalists for making it this far and sharing their talent on stage!
You can view the entire interviews with each of the finalists as well as Sam Ock and Paradise, as well as full performances from the showcase on YouTube. Be sure to follow Kollaboration DC as well on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Instagram!
