Forres Youth Concert featured presentation of the town’s community shield to its young citizen of the year
A talented and conscientious young performer was awarded the town’s prize for citizenship during the annual youth concert.
Bethany Taylor, 13, was “happy and excited” to receive the Forres Community Shield in front of an audience of 150 people attending the town hall to enjoy a packed programme of entertainment featuring a variety of acts including Heather’s Rising Stars - a group of singers Bethany has now been a member of for seven years.
She said: "I didn't even know I’d been nominated so I was shocked to hear that I’d won the award! It’s such an honour."
Bethany has also performed with Stagecoach Theatre School Inverness, at Eden Court Theatre and at Belladrum, as well as worked with the Mad Hatters Of Moray theatre company.
She was nominated for the community shield by Heather Hatch of Rising Stars.
Heather explained: “Bethany is a caring person who is happy to get involved in all aspects of the community.
“She started singing with us when she was six. She was a very shy little girl but has since grown into an amazing, confident, young performer.”
The Rising Stars are regulars at Forres Youth Concert. This year, youngsters Rayne Dawson, Indianna Whiteside and Lidia Kowacka sang ‘Feel the Light’ by Jennifer Lopez, and Harris Huggan performed ‘I Can’t Stand Still’ from musical ‘Footloose’ and ‘Saturday Night’s Alright for Fighting’ from the film ‘Rocket Man’.
“The youth concert is a fantastic opportunity for young people to showcase their talent,” said Heather. “It’s also a way for them to try something in a safe environment in front of a great audience.
“I first performed there when I was 17. I have always encouraged my students to take part as it really helps their confidence.”
Organisers Forres Community Activities Association also included Forres and District Pipe Band, performers from Dallas and Dyke Primary Schools, Forres Academy and 2nd Forres Boys Brigade in the 90 minute event.
Chairman George Alexander said the performances were “enthusiastic” and covered all tastes.
“As usual, the event went smoothly due to the excellent organisational skills of Ewen Watson,” he added, “and the the slick operation of the well practised volunteers.”
Ewan - lead singer of local band Be Like Pablo - also confirmed the event was a success.
“I was really impressed with the range of talent on display,” he said. “The line-up comprised familiar faces and some returning acts from previous years. Friends and family cheered them along. There’s always an atmosphere of excitement.
George is calling for more help to ensure the concert which has been running for more than 50 years can continue.
He said: “The FCAA has a number of senior committee members who have decided to step aside after decades of volunteering. We are in the process of passing the baton on to any new or established group that might want to take it on.”
For more information contact George on 07875034220.
