ADAPT’s got talent–and lots of it! On Wednesday, April 24th, the Lawrence Avenue stage transformed into a glitter-filled set for the ADAPT Community Network “We Got Talent” show. The annual show, which is in its 13th year, provides a platform for ADAPT’s staff and the individuals we support to showcase their talents.
Once the audience took their seats, hosts Michael Matrone (ADAPT’s Chief Compliance Officer) and Alicia Angevine (Director of Recreation Services) introduced the judges, ADAPT CEO Linda Laul, Chief Quality Improvement Officer Mariette Mcbride, and guest judge Madison Zalopany of Zalopany Consulting LLC. They also thanked the audience, which included families, community members, people supported, and staff. NYC Councilwoman Rita Joseph and ADAPT Board Vice President & Treasurer Gideon Asher were among the packed crowd.
Before the talent show finalists took the stage, the cast of ADAPT Theatre Group’s “Addams Family” gave a sneak preview of their musical. Don’t miss their performances on May 14th, 15th, and 16th at 175 Lawrence Avenue!
The talent show, which alternated between people supported and staff performances, was a stunning display of the talent within ADAPT Community Network. The creativity and versatility of ADAPT’s community is truly a treat to experience every year.
The We Got Talent show concluded with a group performance of the Cha Cha Slide, led by past talent show winner Josh Wilson. All the talent show finalists were invited to the stage to dance and sing while the judges deliberated.
ADAPT would like to congratulate all the talented performers, both people supported and staff, who brought the house down with their brilliant artistry. Isaiah Cox took first place in the people supported category with his electric performance of “Kiss” by Prince, Earl Kellman earned second place with a stunning dance performance, and DJ Fredericks took third with a medley of drums, singing, and dancing to the tune of “Dope!” by Bell Biv DeVoe.
In the staff category, Chrys Ann Carrington Smith won first place with an inspiring performance of “Pardy” by Machel Montano that incorporated people supported, staff, and the audience. Second place was won by Nurse Paula Gittens, who performed a rousing recital of Maya Angelou’s “Still I Rise.” Finally, Rachel Fonesca took third place with a vocal and banjo performance of “Plastic Jesus” by Ed Rush and George Cromarty.
We would like to extend our thanks to everyone who attended “We Got Talent”, both in-person and virtually, for enthusiastically supporting our talented performers. The production team, hosts, ASL interpreters, and gifted participants crafted a one-of-a-kind experience for the audience.
To RSVP for future events, please visit https://adaptcommunitynetwork.trumba.com/adapt-events and follow @adaptwechange on all social platforms for updates.
