2nd Annual Skylands Got Talent winners announced

NEWTON — Newton Theatre held its second annual Skylands’ Got Talent show and Autism awareness benefit on April 19. All proceeds from ticket sales will benefit Autism related organizations Autism Speaks, Autism NJ and Reed Academy.

A variety of acts, from vocalists to bands, dancers and hula hoopers, performed in front of a live audience and a panel of judges during the two hour event. The level of regional talent represented was impressive.

After the last singer, 11 year old Sadie Donnelly, performed and the judges went to deliberate, the winners of last year’s Skylands’ Got Talent, Apart 15 — brother and sister Jake and Sarah Riley — performed two songs for the crowd.

First Place went to Tuvan throat singer Robert Mclaughlin, who performed his unusual talent. Second place went to 6th grade vocalist Sam Garcia, who played his version of hit song "Titanium." Skylar DeJesus, the young dancer took third place and No Strings Attached, a cappella group, took fourth. Rounding out the top six were Singer/Songwriter Don Elliker and acoustic band The Mason Jar Rebellion.

The winners each received one of the prizes donated to the event, including opening act for a show at The Newton Theatre, studio time at Steinwand Sound Studio, a promotional package from Minisink Press, custom T-shirts from Blue Raven Artists, a Sussex County Music gift certificate and music lessons from Bill Wright School of Music.

The judges included: Melanie Thiel of WNTI, Sean Gilday of Blue Raven Artists, musician Geoff Doubleday, NJ Herald media consultant Jayne McHugh, and musician Tom Delaney.

The historic Newton Theatre is located at 234 Spring Street in Newton. For more information contact 973-383-3700 or www.TheNewtonTheatre.com.