May 6, 2005
Charlottesville's rising stars battled for the chance to be onstage at the Apollo Theater on Friday.
12 contestants performed their hearts out at the Paramount Theater hoping not to be booed off the stage. The winner received a ticket to Harlem to perform at the legendary Apollo Theater. Many parents said it would be a great honor to play at Apollo because it's a place 'where stars are born and legends are made.'
"We know that this is just another opportunity to get him out there and get some exposure for him," said Mary Grant, a contestant's aunt.
"He did try out for American Idol and he didn't make it to Hollywood but we're hoping this will be a better chance for him at the Apollo," said Mrs. Sheppard, a mother of one contestant.
It was Sheppard's son's lucky night. His group, "Creativity" won, and gets a once in a lifetime opportunity to perform at the Apollo.
Paramount Performer Makes It To Apollo 