Roanoke’s premier community teen showcase, the Total Action for Progress (TAP) “Talent in the Star” Show, had its final showing on July 31 at the Jefferson Center. The beloved yearly tradition was expected to end on a high note, and it certainly delivered.
Hosted by Project Discover U, the performers dazzled the audience with acts ranging from choreographed dance performances to solo piano pieces. Without interruption, the students smiled, performed and walked in confidence.
For their efforts, the judges honored the group Shrevula with the biggest award of the night, a $500 check. Second and third-place honors went to Ahriya Shipman and Lilly Snare, who received $300 and $200, respectively. All youth participants on stage and behind the scenes received a Walmart card worth $25.
“I do a lot of partnering with TAP. We conducted some prevention programming that we did with these kids over the summer. I work at Blue Ridge Behavioral Healthcare and teach dance,” Sammi Rader said. “So naturally, they asked if I could be a judge. I am thankful to everyone who came out to support the young talent Roanoke has to offer.”
The event was emceed by TAP Assistant Director Nicole Ross. Her playful banter with Zoey Arnold meshed seamlessly, entertaining attendees from start to finish.
With themes rooted in inclusion and positivity, energy was injected every time an act graced the stage. “This event has been more than just a talent show – it’s a celebration of teamwork, growth and the spirit that our community centers on. To say we are proud of our kids for bringing it year after year would be an understatement,” Ross said.
The Tomorrow’s Leaders Summer Arts Camp is a seven-week program that builds life skills, offers trauma-informed training to combat gun violence and fosters genuine connections. The talent show was its culmination.
Not only did the concept bring families together, but it also uplifted the voices of teens, empowering them to pursue their dreams.
“Since day one, the mission of the talent show never wavered. It’s always been about empowering Roanoke’s youth by providing a platform for talent expression and discussions on critical issues,” Ross said. “TAP acknowledges previous support from partners such as the United Way, Goodwill Industries of the Valleys, and donors.”
She added, “Our shift is because we listen to our youth. This year, 80 teens signed up for our Work Forward Summer Work Program, and we could only place 30. That let us know the need and passion for our youth is employment and training which are the foundation of TAP’s This Valley Works Component.”
