The Spartans took center stage in the exciting, seven-week long singing competition “The One Jr” at 115 Bourbon Street these past two Sundays, and they did not disappoint. From one to three in the afternoon, the venue at 115 Bourbon Street was packed with locals eager to witness some of the best vocal talent from teenagers in town.
The show is an American Idol-like competition where judges and a host pick the themes for the week and contestants are vying for the votes of the audience. The scent of sizzling burgers filled the air as the dimly lit room was consumed with music, setting the perfect scene for an unforgettable showdown.
Representing Oak Lawn were seniors Jayla Clark and Amber Trigg, who both won the school’s talent competition this year, alongside Orlando Ramirez, a former student who graduated last year. Encouraged by the school’s own music and vocal teacher, Samantha Elliott, all three students put it all on the line and the Spartan competitors undeniably stole the spotlight.
“I’m really excited! I have done this competition before and I wanted to be able to bring that experience to the students because I knew that this would be an opportunity that they would be interested in,” commented Elliott in an interview. “I have been trying to hype the students up for the competition. I want them to have a good time. If they approach every week like they’re having fun, I know that that’s going to be their best performance.”
Each performer brought something special to the stage, giving it all as they compete for the grand prize. Clark’s powerful voice commanded attention from the crowd, Trigg’s soulful delivery left the crowd in awe, and Ramirez, though no longer a student, proved that Spartan talent lasts long after graduation. The competition was fierce, but the energy and support for the Spartan singers were unmatched.
Trigg performing Just the Way You Are by Bruno Mars, was told by a judge “you’ve got something special!” And Clark performing Die With A Smile by Bruno Mars and Lady Gaga, showed the judges what she can do and in her first critique was told “If you keep doing that, you have a good chance to win the show.”
As the competition continues, it is clear that Clark, Trigg, and Ramirez had won over the audience. This past week, Week 2-Pop Week, both Jayla and Amber were voted the favorite by the judges, which is an incredible accomplishment to be noticed by the judges. As the music faded and the final notes echoed through the competition hall, one thing was certain, Spartans’ musical legacy is stronger than ever.
Elliott remarked, “I’m so proud of my students and their willingness to put themselves on the big stage and compete! This is not an easy show, and there are big stakes. They all have what it takes to make it to the end, and they all deserve to take home the grand prize. I can’t wait to see what they do next in this competition!”
This Sunday, the competition is all about Country music. All three students have advanced through the competition, and are looking forward to showing their talent once again. Everyone is welcomed to come to the show to help cheer them on. Come to the performances week-to-week to help get Jayla, Amber and Orlando to the finale.
