By allowing ads to appear on this site, you support the local businesses who, in turn, support great journalism.
Manteca Idol gears up for Week No. 2
IDOL1-8-13-09
Geleeza Idolyantes was among the competitors in the opening week of the 2009 Manteca Idol. - photo by HIME ROMERO/The Bulletin

On the opening night of the 2009 Manteca Idol’s debut at Chez Shari restaurant, the trio of Robin Glover, Judi Hoagland, and Katelyn Johnson impressed the judges enough to earn themselves a spot in the next round.


Three of the Manteca Junior Idol contestants – who won’t be judged formally until the finals – also took the stage to get a better understanding of what it is like to perform in front of an audience.


Former fan favorite Annie Banks will be singing as one of the Junior Idol singers when the contest resumes this Wednesday at 7 p.m. on the second floor of the Manteca golf clubhouse at Chez Shari/s. Doors open at 6 p.m. Guest judge Reggie Gin – who has made quite a name for herself playing local shows – will provide the intermission entertainment. Previous contestant Trisha Checketts is also set to perform.


According to Manteca Idol Director of Operations Melanee Scarborough, the first night went off better than expected. It is something that she said was a combination of the evening’s talent and defending Manteca Idol and current emcee Christine Acosta’s ability to entertain he crowd as well as those who were getting ready to step onto stage.


“She just seems so natural up there – anybody that saw her perform on Wednesday knows that she deserved to win that time,” Scarborough said.
“And she has taken on the role of somewhat of a mother backstage to some of the younger contestants to help them though their fears.”


While the contest has established itself as Manteca’s pre-eminent vocal talent competition, Scarborough is quick to point out that the entire event is still a fundraiser for the Boys and Girls Club – with the new committee taking a little less emphasis off the serious nature of the contest and to allow everyone to have fun.


“If you’re not out there and having a good time then there’s a problem, and we wanted to make it much looser this year,” she said. “We’re still got 17 weeks to go after this, so hopefully things continue the way that they’ve been going.”


For information on tickets call the Boys & Girls Club at 239-KIDS.

To contact Jason Campbell, e-mail jcampbell@mantecabulletin.com. or call (209) 249-3544.