Eglin's got talent

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Anthony Jennings
  • Team Eglin Public Affairs
EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  It was show-time at the Enlisted Hall, Feb. 27, as contestants showcased big performances during the inaugural Eglin's Got Talent show.

The event, in celebration of African American Heritage, drew in more than 200 people to watch 10 contestants compete to be chosen as Eglin's most talented performer.

"It was the best event of the month," said Craig Moffett, a contestant's father. "The luncheons were great, but the atmosphere and historical knowledge presented here was outstanding."

The evening began with eerie quiet as the lights dimmed and Tech. Sgt. Terrance "Teddy" Ladd, 96th Logistics Readiness Squadron, entered the stage.

Teddy quickly lightened the mood with a comedic/musical routine featuring various old school tracks like Michael Jackson's "Rock with You" and the Commodore's "Brick House."

"I was pretty much going off the crowd," Teddy said. "I didn't have written jokes, but I could tell the audience was into it."

The evening was as educational as it was entertaining. Between performances, Teddy talked to the audience about the historic contributions African Americans have made to music and entertainment in today's culture, citing names such as Isaac Hayes and W.E.B. Du Bois.

"The performances were great entertainment," said Teddy. "But we wanted to make sure we reflected on our history as well."

After warming up the crowd ,he introduced the night's performers. Routines ranged from dance and instrumental, to poetry and song. The variety of acts made it difficult to pick any one performance, but it came down to "talent." The winner was picked by the audience applause.

It came down to two vocalists, Crystal McGregor and Kimra Moffett, who had a large following of supporters in the crowd.

"The crowd made it really fun," said Ms. Moffett.

The crowd roared and the decision was made.

Ms. McGregor was named the winner of Eglin's Got Talent for her rendition of "Just a Prayer Away" by Yolanda Adams. She was awarded with a prize of $100.

"My godmother told me to pick a song that showed my range," said Ms. McGregor, 21. "I'm just thankful God allowed me the opportunity to minister to the audience."

The demand for the talent show to become an annual event was clearly expressed by the atmosphere and crowd response.

"This was an amazing experience," said Mrs. Moffett. "I hope they do this again next year."