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EDITOR: BETTIE GILIOMEE
‘New York, New York’ beckons for Gino Lee ZELDRÉ SWANEPOEL
L
OCAL teen singing sensation Gino Lee has just landed a prestigious scholarship at the New York Film Academy (NYDA) after attending a talent showcase in the USA.
Gino Lee (17) was one of seven contestants from Port Elizabeth who were scouted to perform at the Applause Rising Talent Showcase (ARTS) in Orlando, Florida, in the USA last week. ARTS, an international organization, presents this convention for young, aspiring artists who excel in singing, dancing, acting and modelling, to audition in front of big industry names in a Hollywood and Broadway style set-up.
to Nickelodeon and Disney executives. “Premiere Artist Management in Canada wants him to audition for the role of the young Little Richie in a movie about the latter. A few other agencies also want to meet with him when he returns to the States. All of them were given a copy of Gino’s CDs, business cards and resumé,” Clive said. Gino described the experience as overwhelming and exciting. “I really appreciate the scholarship, and it’s like a dream come true. I am so grateful to my parents for their support, Juanita Smit (Rolemodels SA), Elsubie de Lange (Just You Artist Management) and Kim Myers (ARTS
Expo) for making my dream come true.” A few contestants were awarded this prestigious award at the awards ceremony after being scouted for their performances at the ARTS Expo by Rodger Del Pozo, the Director of acting admissions NYFA. “I now have something concrete to pursue after school next year. This gives me the opportunity to study in the USA at one of the best academies in the world. I would like to start in 2014.” Gino Lee added that he thought it was important to educate himself while continuing with his performing career. “This certainly has been a major break-
through - not only being awarded the scholarship, but also being able to personally give my resumé to some of the world’s biggest agents, managers and record label executives.” During the Applause Rising Talent Showcase, Gino Lee also won trophies for the following categories: first place Photographic runway; third place Singing; top 5 in TV Commercial; top 5 in Cold Read. After the Expo, Gino left for London to join his school in London for a theatre tour last week. When he returns to Port Elizabeth he will work focus on his school work and new material for his debut EP, due later this year.
“One agency is especially keen to introduce Gino to Nickelodeon and Disney executives.” - CLIVE SWANEPOEL Although known as a singer locally, Gino Lee was scouted for his acting and modelling acting abilities by an international scout in Johannesburg. He is currently a grade 12 pupil at Theodor Herzl High School and also recently had a lead role in his school’s grand musical showcase, Aida. After a gruelling week of auditions at ARTS Gino was awarded a scholarship to study at NYDA. He also received 18 callbacks which enabled him to meet with agents, managers and label executives who personally interviewed him. According to Gino Lee’s dad, Clive Swanepoel, who is also his manager, one agency is especially keen to introduce Gino
Gino Lee outside the New York Film Academy (NYDA) where he will be studying next year. PHOTO: SUPPLIED