Windham County's Got Talent 2025

Page 1


Thursday, January 30, 2025

Latchis Theatre, 50 Main St., Brattleboro, Vt. 6:30-8:30p.m.

Emily Mleczko
JesseOlsson
DawsonNewton
MichelleMazzarElla
ChristianaMontano
KendraPerna
Quinn Carafiello
Xian Tan
Jackets
Cornerstone Sponsors
JadeBailey JasonDansby

Thursday, January 30, 2025

Latchis Theatre, 50 Main St., Brattleboro, Vt. 6:30-8:30p.m.

Meet our MC Meet our judges

Warren Cort Dews Jr.

Rev. Warren

Cort Dews Jr. was born and raised in the Bronx, N.Y. A noted singer in his church’s choir and throughout the community, Warren loved to praise the Lord with his powerful and melodious voice.

Warren was a well-known singer in his junior high school in the Bronx. His talent garnered him acceptance into the prestigious Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts in Manhattan. The school is also known as the “Fame” school as it served as inspiration for the hit 1980s television show. In 1987, Warren performed on stage with Patti LaBelle and the late Billy Preston. He later went on to work with the late Jam Master Jay, a member of the groundbreaking group, Run-DMC. In 1993, he started singing secular music with his group and was signed to Atlantic Records. In 2019, Warren founded Dews Management Inc (DMI) in which he helps manage and work with many singers, actors and other talented people to share their gifts with the world.

He currently works with artists/friends such as Ayana George-Jackson who is currently on Broadway playing the role of Katherine Jackson, mother of Michael Jackson in the musical, MJ.

Professionally, Warren is now VP of Capital Region Independent Media. The company owns seven newspapers and over 20 magazines and websites. He is also CEO of Wallit and co-owner of Bigg Daddy’s, that opened at MASS MoCA in the Spring of 2023. Additionally, Warren serves on the boards of the Boys and Girls Club of the Berkshires, The Brien Center, Barrington Stage Company, Berkshire Black Economic Council, New York Press Association and a slew of other groups that help the community and people at large.

Warren earned a bachelor’s degree from Virginia State University and Master of Divinity from Grand Canyon University. He is a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. and St. John Lodge #10 Masonic Organization. Additionally, Warren serves on the boards of the Boys and Girls Club of the Berkshires, The Brien Center, Barrington Stage Company, Berkshire Black Economic Council, NorthEast Association of Communication

He lives in the beautiful Berkshires of western Massachusetts with his wife, Roberta, and their three children; sons, Warren III and West and daughter, Kennedy.

Chris Lewis

I love my job! Can you imagine getting up every day to new challenges and the joy of helping people find their dreams? Growing up in the small family oriented community of Swan’s Island, Maine, ethics and hard work were taught and expected. Education and service were the top priorities when I joined Brattleboro Area Realty 35 years ago building on a base of good values.

I am passionate about my clients, love learning new ways to help and love seeing the smiles when we have found the right match! I believe in our community and appreciate the outstanding support and recognition it has given my wonderful career. Service is always with a smile and excitement for my clients. Most years, a local top producer, I hold CRS, CBR GRI certifications, Broker licenses in both VT and NH, VFHA, Partner in Affordable Housing, the Brattleboro Area Chamber of Commerce Certificate of Merit, and the Reformer Best of the Best awards. I love our mantra “Raising the BAR in Real Estate”. It says it all.

Kristen Ziter Taylor

Kristen Ziter Taylor is owner/broker of Brattleboro Area Realty. Being a native of the town Kristen loves owning a business in her hometown. Her real estate company has thrived for 50 years and the BAR team has dedication, perseverance, and a great reputation. Kristen was voted 2018 Remarkable Womens Entrepreneurial Leader and her firm has been voted Greater Brattleboro’s Best Real Estate Office for 21 years and Best Real Estate Agency by Brattleboro Reformers Readers Choice for 7 years. Kristen is married to Ken Taylor and they have two wonderful daughters, Kali and Kennedy. When not working Kristen loves to cook, exercise, and spend time with her dogs. She is thrilled to be a judge and admires all of the contestants for standing on the stage performing. Bring on the talent!

Pamela Savoy

Pamela is the HR Administrator with Fulflex. She has been employed with Fulflex for 37 years, and have been the HR Administrator for 23 years. She is a native Vermonter, but has lived in New Hampshire for 37 years.

Dan Bacigalupo

Dan is a kid at heart. Dan loves to spend time with his family and friends. He is from Southern Vermont but has traveled and lived in many places around the United States. 6 years ago, Dan decided to lay down roots here in Brattleboro, Vermont and has been working at Brattleboro Subaru since 2019. When he’s not working, his favorite thing to do is to spend time outside with his kids, Lilly and Jackson.

Christiana Montano

Christiana is originally from Middletown, New York, just a train ride away from NYC. She grew up singing in school and church productions and has been an active member of her church’s worship team. The pinnacle of her achievement has been singing in the choir for Maverick City Music on their Grammy-winning song, “Fear is Not My Future”. Christiana spends her days chasing her very active toddler around the house and is expecting the arrival of her second baby this August

Dawson Newton

Dawson Newton is 11 years old, he plays hockey and baseball, has a hot dog cart business, and tells dad jokes

U O E AT O C T T R N S NS

Emily Mleczko

Emily has always had a passion for singing and performing since elementary school. She participates in choir in grade school and high school performing a variety of music. Emily went on to pursue a Nursing career and got her BSN from Vermont Technical College in 2022. Emily still finds the time to sing, play ukulele and occasionally perform at open mic nights across Brattleboro

Jackets

The Jackets are a youth cover band that consists of piano, trumpet, trombone, bass, violin, guitar, and drums to create a unique mix of pop, rock, soul, and jazz. They’re focused on putting their own twist to covers, with a fresh sound and creative arrangements. They aim to connect with audiences by bringing new life to music that’s both familiar and exciting.

Jade Bailey

Jade Bailey is an artist from Francestown, NH, that has been working as a musician since age 16. She started playing the drums at 10, her father taught her the guitar at 12, and she began singing and utilizing a loop pedal for live performances at 16 years old. She is currently working as a supportive counselor at a group home doing music therapy with teenagers. She was inspired to start performing because of the support her parents gave me. They inspired her to write her own music and record/produce her album that will be released in 2025. Her goal is to work as a musician/music therapist full time, and she is hoping her music connects with people the way it has connected with her.

Jason Dansby

As a former hip-hop artist, I’ve always had a passion for singing. Whether its Elton John, Michael Jackson or Seal, I love to sing soulful ballots. When not singing, I love to talk about movies with my brothers on our YouTube channel!

U O E AT O C T T R N S NS

Jesse Olsson

Jesse Olsson has been singing I front of an audience for almost 10 years. She is currently in chorus and band at her school. Even though she enjoys singing with a group she has always had a passion for singing live and a dream to eventually become a Broadway star. She has always been in her hometown of Jamaica Vermont and has done five musicals. She wants to start doing Windham got talent to share her love for music.

Kendra Perna

Kendra has been singing since she could talk! She really began getting serious about singing in high school, later attending college for classical opera and musical. Some notable performances were Cinderella in Into The Woods, and Jo March in Little Women.

Kendra started a family with her husband in 2021, and performing took a back seat. Although it is still a huge passion of hers. She hopes as her children continue to get older she will find more opportunities to perform!

U O E AT O C T T R N S NS

Matt Meserve

Matt Meserve has been singing since he could talk. He began performing in local theater and singing solos in youth choirs at the age of 6. In high school he developed a love for Billy Joel and began to study piano to accompany himself. He was a highly decorated singer in high school as well, being the highest scoring tenor at the All-State Music Festival his junior and senior year. During the day, he is a Case Manager at the Vermont Department of Labor, but on the weekends and in the evenings, he croons and tickles the ivories. He has been entertaining audiences in Vermont and NH for 20 years. His versatile vocals range between soft ballads, to powerful soul and blues classics. His keyboard skills are the perfect complement to his voice. Fans have grown to love his versions of Billy Joel, Elton John, James Taylor, Van Morrison and more!

Michelle Mazzarella

Michelle Mazzarella is an ‘artistic chameleon’ who thrives in roles both onstage and off. She is currently an all-ages aerial, Cyr wheel, and flying trapeze coach at NECCA, and is touring North America in the large-scale production, Champions of Magic. Michelle became a ProTrack student at NECCA in the fall of 2019. When lockdowns began, she took up Cyr wheel as a covid project, spinning alone in an empty airport hangar. Eventually NECCA reopened, where she declared her new love of Cyr wheel as her secondary apparatus. Under the guise of her amazing coaches, she was able to take this new skillset with her on a successful performing career. She is super excited to perform at WCGT for the first time, and to share a new Cyr wheel act with you all today.

Quinn Carafiello

Quinn Carafiello, a 10-year-old from the charming town of Cavendish, is a young girl with a big voice and an even bigger love for singing. Quinn’s passion for music is as boundless as her imagination. She has been singing for as long as she can remember, starting with performances for her family and friends at home, where she first discovered the joy of sharing her voice. Quinn was inspired to start performing by her favorite artists, who showed her how music can connect people and tell powerful stories. Encouraged by a supportive family and music teachers, Quinn has worked hard to develop her talent, practicing daily and exploring a wide range of songs, from Broadway hits to pop classics. Her ultimate goal is to sing the National Anthem in a stadium, someday, sharing her music with a wide audience and perhaps even inspiring others to follow their dreams. When not singing, Quinn enjoys tending to her chickens, playing with her dogs, crafting, and baking. Whether on stage or off, Quinn’s creativity and determination are truly inspiring, and the future looks bright for this young performer!

Xian Tan

My name is Xian, I’m 9 years old and I’m in the third grade. I’m originally from the Philippines and currently reside in Brattleboro, Vermont. Having grown up in a Filipino household, I developed a profound appreciation for singing, as it serves as a primary means of relaxation and family bonding through karaoke. From a very young age, I was aware of my passion for singing and was determined to hone my skills. My parents are highly supportive of my singing endeavors. After school, I attend piano and voice lessons, which heightens my enthusiasm for music. As a kid, I also love playing outdoors, reading books and watching movies which enabled me to spend quality time with my family.

Official ballot

Below, please mark your choice for the best performer in this year’s Windham County’s Got Talent contest by filling in the circle next to their name. One vote per ballot and one ballot per audience member, please. Ballots will be collected after the final performance. Or scan this QR code to vote online

Christiana Montano
Dawson Newton
Emily Mleczko
Jackets
5. Jade Bailey
6. Jason Dansby
7. Jesse Olsson
8. Kendra Perna
9. Matt Meserve
10. Michelle MazzarElla
11. Quinn Carafiello
12. Xian Tan

MeEt our MC

WarRen Cort Dews Jr.

Rev. Warren

Cort Dews Jr. was born and raised in the Bronx, N.Y. A noted singer in his church’s choir and throughout the community, Warren loved to praise the Lord with his powerful and melodious voice.

Warren was a well-known singer in his junior high school in the Bronx. His talent garnered him acceptance into the prestigious Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts in Manhattan. The school is also known as the “Fame” school as it served as inspiration for the hit 1980s television show. In 1987, Warren performed on stage with Patti LaBelle and the late Billy Preston. He later went on to work with the late Jam Master Jay, a member of the groundbreaking group, Run-DMC. In 1993, he started singing secular music with his group and was signed to Atlantic Records. In 2019, Warren founded Dews Management Inc (DMI) in which he helps manage and work with many singers, actors and other talented people to share their gifts with the world.

He currently works with artists/friends such as Ayana George-Jackson who is currently on Broadway playing the role of Katherine Jackson, mother of Michael Jackson in the musical, MJ.

Professionally, Warren is now VP of Capital Region Independent Media. The company owns seven newspapers and over 20 magazines and websites. He is also CEO of Wallit and co-owner of Bigg Daddy’s, that opened at MASS MoCA in the Spring of 2023. Additionally, Warren serves on the boards of the Boys and Girls Club of the Berkshires, The Brien Center, Barrington Stage Company, Berkshire Black Economic Council, New York Press Association and a slew of other groups that help the community and people at large.

Warren earned a bachelor’s degree from Virginia State University and Master of Divinity from Grand Canyon University. He is a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. and St. John Lodge #10 Masonic Organization. Additionally, Warren serves on the boards of the Boys and Girls Club of the Berkshires, The Brien Center, Barrington Stage Company, Berkshire Black Economic Council, NorthEast Association of Communication

He lives in the beautiful Berkshires of western Massachusetts with his wife, Roberta, and their three children; sons, Warren III and West and daughter, Kennedy.

MeEt our judges

Chris Lewis

I love my job! Can you imagine getting up every day to new challenges and the joy of helping people find their dreams? Growing up in the small family oriented community of Swan’s Island, Maine, ethics and hard work were taught and expected. Education and service were the top priorities when I joined Brattleboro Area Realty 35 years ago building on a base of good values.

I am passionate about my clients, love learning new ways to help and love seeing the smiles when we have found the right match! I believe in our community and appreciate the outstanding support and recognition it has given my wonderful career. Service is always with a smile and excitement for my clients. Most years, a local top producer, I hold CRS, CBR GRI certifications, Broker licenses in both VT and NH, VFHA, Partner in A ordable Housing, the Brattleboro Area Chamber of Commerce Certificate of Merit, and the Reformer Best of the Best awards. I love our mantra “Raising the BAR in Real Estate”. It says it all.

Kristen Ziter Taylor

Kristen Ziter Taylor is owner/broker of Brattleboro Area Realty. Being a native of the town Kristen loves owning a business in her hometown. Her real estate company has thrived for 50 years and the BAR team has dedication, perseverance, and a great reputation. Kristen was voted 2018 Remarkable Womens Entrepreneurial Leader and her firm has been voted Greater Brattleboro’s Best Real Estate O ce for 21 years and Best Real Estate Agency by Brattleboro Reformers Readers Choice for 7 years. Kristen is married to Ken Taylor and they have two wonderful daughters, Kali and Kennedy. When not working Kristen loves to cook, exercise, and spend time with her dogs. She is thrilled to be a judge and admires all of the contestants for standing on the stage performing. Bring on the talent!

Pamela Savoy

Pamela is the HR Administrator with Fulflex. She has been employed with Fulflex for 37 years, and have been the HR Administrator for 23 years. She is a native Vermonter, but has lived in New Hampshire for 37 years.

Dan Bacigalupo

Dan is a kid at heart. Dan loves to spend time with his family and friends. He is from Southern Vermont but has traveled and lived in many places around the United States. 6 years ago, Dan decided to lay down roots here in Brattleboro, Vermont and has been working at Brattleboro Subaru since 2019. When he’s not working, his favorite thing to do is to spend time outside with his kids, Lilly and Jackson.

Christiana Montano

Christiana is originally from Middletown, New York, just a train ride away from NYC. She grew up singing in school and church productions and has been an active member of her church’s worship team. The pinnacle of her achievement has been singing in the choir for Maverick City Music on their Grammy-winning song, “Fear is Not My Future”. Christiana spends her days chasing her very active toddler around the house and is expecting the arrival of her second baby this August

Dawson Newton

Dawson Newton is 11 years old, he plays hockey and baseball, has a hot dog cart business, and tells dad jokes

U O E AT O C T T R N S NS

Emily Mleczko

Emily has always had a passion for singing and performing since elementary school. She participates in choir in grade school and high school performing a variety of music. Emily went on to pursue a Nursing career and got her BSN from Vermont Technical College in 2022. Emily still finds the time to sing, play ukulele and occasionally perform at open mic nights across Brattleboro

Jackets

The Jackets are a youth cover band that consists of piano, trumpet, trombone, bass, violin, guitar, and drums to create a unique mix of pop, rock, soul, and jazz. They’re focused on putting their own twist to covers, with a fresh sound and creative arrangements. They aim to connect with audiences by bringing new life to music that’s both familiar and exciting.

Jade Bailey

Jade Bailey is an artist from Francestown, NH, that has been working as a musician since age 16. She started playing the drums at 10, her father taught her the guitar at 12, and she began singing and utilizing a loop pedal for live performances at 16 years old. She is currently working as a supportive counselor at a group home doing music therapy with teenagers. She was inspired to start performing because of the support her parents gave me. They inspired her to write her own music and record/produce her album that will be released in 2025. Her goal is to work as a musician/music therapist full time, and she is hoping her music connects with people the way it has connected with her.

Jason Dansby

As a former hip-hop artist, I’ve always had a passion for singing. Whether its Elton John, Michael Jackson or Seal, I love to sing soulful ballots. When not singing, I love to talk about movies with my brothers on our YouTube channel!

U O E AT O C T T R N S NS

JesSe OlsSon

Jesse Olsson has been singing I front of an audience for almost 10 years. She is currently in chorus and band at her school. Even though she enjoys singing with a group she has always had a passion for singing live and a dream to eventually become a Broadway star. She has always been in her hometown of Jamaica Vermont and has done five musicals. She wants to start doing Windham got talent to share her love for music.

Kendra Perna

Kendra has been singing since she could talk! She really began getting serious about singing in high school, later attending college for classical opera and musical. Some notable performances were Cinderella in Into The Woods, and Jo March in Little Women.

Kendra started a family with her husband in 2021, and performing took a back seat. Although it is still a huge passion of hers. She hopes as her children continue to get older she will find more opportunities to perform!

U O E AT O C T T R N S NS

MatT Meserve

Matt Meserve has been singing since he could talk. He began performing in local theater and singing solos in youth choirs at the age of 6. In high school he developed a love for Billy Joel and began to study piano to accompany himself. He was a highly decorated singer in high school as well, being the highest scoring tenor at the All-State Music Festival his junior and senior year. During the day, he is a Case Manager at the Vermont Department of Labor, but on the weekends and in the evenings, he croons and tickles the ivories. He has been entertaining audiences in Vermont and NH for 20 years. His versatile vocals range between soft ballads, to powerful soul and blues classics. His keyboard skills are the perfect complement to his voice. Fans have grown to love his versions of Billy Joel, Elton John, James Taylor, Van Morrison and more!

MichelLe MazZarelLa

Michelle Mazzarella is an ‘artistic chameleon’ who thrives in roles both onstage and o . She is currently an all-ages aerial, Cyr wheel, and flying trapeze coach at NECCA, and is touring North America in the large-scale production, Champions of Magic. Michelle became a ProTrack student at NECCA in the fall of 2019. When lockdowns began, she took up Cyr wheel as a covid project, spinning alone in an empty airport hangar. Eventually NECCA reopened, where she declared her new love of Cyr wheel as her secondary apparatus. Under the guise of her amazing coaches, she was able to take this new skillset with her on a successful performing career. She is super excited to perform at WCGT for the first time, and to share a new Cyr wheel act with you all today.

QuinN CarafielLo

Quinn Carafiello, a 10-year-old from the charming town of Cavendish, is a young girl with a big voice and an even bigger love for singing. Quinn’s passion for music is as boundless as her imagination. She has been singing for as long as she can remember, starting with performances for her family and friends at home, where she first discovered the joy of sharing her voice. Quinn was inspired to start performing by her favorite artists, who showed her how music can connect people and tell powerful stories. Encouraged by a supportive family and music teachers, Quinn has worked hard to develop her talent, practicing daily and exploring a wide range of songs, from Broadway hits to pop classics. Her ultimate goal is to sing the National Anthem in a stadium, someday, sharing her music with a wide audience and perhaps even inspiring others to follow their dreams. When not singing, Quinn enjoys tending to her chickens, playing with her dogs, crafting, and baking. Whether on stage or o , Quinn’s creativity and determination are truly inspiring, and the future looks bright for this young performer!

Xian Tan

My name is Xian, I’m 9 years old and I’m in the third grade. I’m originally from the Philippines and currently reside in Brattleboro, Vermont. Having grown up in a Filipino household, I developed a profound appreciation for singing, as it serves as a primary means of relaxation and family bonding through karaoke. From a very young age, I was aware of my passion for singing and was determined to hone my skills. My parents are highly supportive of my singing endeavors. After school, I attend piano and voice lessons, which heightens my enthusiasm for music. As a kid, I also love playing outdoors, reading books and watching movies which enabled me to spend quality time with my family.

OfFicial balLot

Below, please mark your choice for the best performer in this year’s Windham County’s Got Talent contest by filling in the circle next to their name. One vote per ballot and one ballot per audience member, please. Ballots will be collected after the final performance. Or scan this QR

Christiana Montano
Dawson Newton
Emily Mleczko
Jackets
5. Jade Bailey
6. Jason Dansby
7. JesSe OlsSon
8. Kendra Perna
MatT Meserve

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