A Radio 1 producer, who will be judging Slough’s biggest ever talent search, YoungStar 2009, said he was excited about finding new stars in the borough.
Rob Littlejohn, or Rob L as he’s known, has remained a key figure within the urban music industry for many years.
As a professional radio producer for BBC 1Xtra and Radio 1, an established mix-tape DJ and production company, Rob is regarded as one of the most committed people working in radio.
Since 1Xtra’s launch, Rob has produced a major part of the BBC’s national urban output – including shows for Ace and Vis, Robbo Ranx, Rampage, Benji B, Manny Norte, Machel Montano, Seani B and more recently Tim Westwood, Chris Goldfinger and Mary Anne Hobbs.
Rob L said of the Slough YoungStar talent search: “I’m really looking forward to coming to Slough and seeing what talent it can offer. We need events like these in every part of the country and it’s great to see YoungStar taking the initiative in supporting its local talent.
“Watching someone perform is still the ultimate way in discovering our future stars. The UK has so much to offer and it doesn’t matter where you’re from – ask Craig David, Joss Stone, or Jamelia – you can be from outside London and break through and I’m excited about seeing the talent on offer at these events.”
YoungStar is a massive Slough wide talent search, engaging 800 young people in the town and surrounding areas.
Applicants who enter the talent showcase will perform their star quality to a panel of industry professionals. The winner will get the help of a professional mentor and career development grant of £1,500.
This April will see five open auditions being held in Slough at youth centres, culminating in a grand finale event, where the winning performance will be decided on. Open auditions will be in dance, drama (including spoken word), production, including radio broadcasting, singing, comedy and crazy skills.
Audition dates:
* Monday, April 6 from 5pm to 7.30pm at Horsemoor Green, Common Road, Langley
* Tuesday, April 7 from 5pm to 8pm at SYPC, 323 High Street Slough
* Thursday, April 9 from 5pm to 8pm at the Haymill Centre, 112 Burnham Lane, Slough
* Saturday, April 11 from 5pm to 8pm at The Orchard Youth and Community Centre, 73a Stoke Poges Lane, Slough
* Tuesday, April 14 from 5pm to 8pm at the West Wing, Stoke Road, Slough
The grand finale will be held on Saturday April 18, 7pm till 9pm at the West Wing, Stoke Road. The project is supported by Slough youth service and will be run by volunteers drawn from young people attending SYPC.
SYPC are still recruiting volunteers to be part of this project to gain experience in event planning, web design, stage management, publicity, marketing and leadership skills.
If anyone is interested in boosting their skills and CV, email karlene.palmer@slough.gov.uk for more info or alternatively attend the SYPC, 323 High Street or call 01753 539300.
Slough Borough Council
