By Raiza Giorgi
publisher@santaynezvalleystar.com
Elizabeth Enderle has not only seen the musical “Mama Mia!” several hundred times, she’s memorized the lyrics to all the songs. That is what ultimately inspired her to audition for this year’s Teen Star Santa Barbara singing competition.
To her delight, she has been chosen along with 11 other singers from around Santa Barbara County as the top 12 who will perform on Feb. 23 at the Arlington Theatre.
“My mom told me that I have been singing as soon as I could talk, but I really got into it watching the ‘Mama Mia’ movies. I don’t necessarily love all musicals, but this one really sparked my passion in music,” said Elizabeth, 15, of Solvang.
The sophomore at Santa Ynez Valley Union High School not only packs a powerful voice, but she also is powerful in wrestling, powerlifting and kickboxing.
“I work out at Youth Empowered in Solvang and know it is important to be physically fit and strong for any sport or activity,” she said.
Elizabeth keeps busy not only singing and in the weight room, but she’s an accomplished horsewoman and loves to ski with her family.
She doesn’t give up easily, either. She has auditioned for Teen Star in the past, but this was the first year she made the final 12.
The mission of Teen Star Santa Barbara is to support youth in performing arts with the goal of nurturing talent by inspiring passion, instilling a drive for success and encouraging excellence and professionalism.
“I took the criticism from my last experience and really worked on what they told me. Now I am back and I am ready to show them how I have improved. Even if I don’t win, I am just happy to have this experience and opportunity to learn even more,” Elizabeth said.
She has studied all the past performers on the Teen Star YouTube channel, and at past Teen Star finals, Elizabeth watched how the judges and crowds reacted to the singers.
“I don’t think I will do any ballads for my final performance. I want to show my strengths in the pop or country genres,” she said.
The winner will receive a $1,000 scholarship and job opportunities, and get to open a show at the Santa Barbara Bowl. All finalists will also get funding for their school’s arts programs.
The proceeds from the showcase will benefit performing arts in Santa Barbara County schools.
For more information, visit TeenStarUSA.com or call 800-380-9110, ext. 200.
FYI – Another local Teen Star finalist, Midland School student Emily Cummings, will be featured in our next issue.
