GIVING THEM A BREAK
April 8, 2014 by Las Vegas Black Image Magazine
Filed under Feature, Photos
At a time when talent competitions are all the pop culture rage, a Las Vegas educator aims to provide exposure for budding stars.
BY KIMBERLY BAILEY-TUREAUD
Nauteachia Black of T Black Entertainment is looking to help Las Vegas' talented youths.
“American Idol.” “The Voice.” “The X Factor.” “America’s Got Talent.”
Talent shows have never been more popular. With that in mind, Las Vegas native Nauteachia Black has launched a new company, T Black Entertainment — the driving force behind the singing competition Young Star, which will debut April 5 with a live show at Pearson Community Center.
“I have always loved working with children,” said Black. “I initially wanted to open my own daycare and/or group home — but when those plans fell through, I still desired to work with children.” An accomplished singer in her own right (she performs as part of the recording choir ‘Friends of Gospel’), Black works as a special education teacher at Legacy High School. Still, “I thought to myself that one day I would produce a singing competition for children — just like ‘American Idol,’ but for the children of our Las Vegas community. I call it Young Star, for children between the ages of 10 to 18. The response has been wonderful.”
Black’s passion for helping children is undeniable. The mother of four children — two biological, two adopted — is keenly aware of how young people possess a developmental need for self-expression and positive reinforcement.
“As a single mother and grandmother of three, I understand the importance of letting your talent shine,” she said. “Many students participate in band and choir — but they rarely have the opportunity to show their true talent. It does so many positive things to increase self-confidence, and I believe participating in the musical arts improves academic performance.”
As part of Young Star, three judges will choose from 12 previously selected finalists, who won their slots through audition. There are three elimination rounds and the 2014 Young Star will be revealed June 7, the final day of the competition.
“All of the contestants will perform each day of the competition, giving them continual exposure,” said Black. “There will be a live band and an official theme song for the Young Star competition. We are also giving the children access to a voice coach at practice, and for all three rounds of the competition.”
The winner of the competition will receive a cash award of $300, along with an opportunity to record their own single. The competition is free, but each contestant must agree to attend every practice on time, and sell 10 general admission tickets.
“The children keep me going, and sometimes it gets to be a little consuming,” said Black. “Someone always calls me to say how excited they are about what I’m doing. This helps keep me going, and encourages me to keep doing what I enjoy — because I love what I do and working with the children.”
For more information, contact Young Star at (702) 612-2839 or send an email to Elkallin1@gmail.com
