Reach out

On Friday, September 14, 2007, the Peoples' Church, Assembly of God, launched Reach Light – a Gospel Music event along the lines of the ultra-popular American Idol, with a Sri Lankan twist, of course. Reach Light is especially designed to cater to music lovers between the ages of 16 and 25 who have registered beforehand and have been through rigorous auditions over the past weeks. The competition will span over six consecutive Friday evenings, from September 14 to October 19, ultimately culminating in the Grand Finale at which the winners will be able to carry away some truly fabulous prizes, courtesy of Yamaha and Bass!

Well known personalities in the music industry, including Noeline Honter, Chris, Rukshan, Bathiya and Santhush and other such celebrities will judge this exciting event and help determine the winners. Reach Light focuses on talent and entertainment value – it's not just about winning, it's about singing your heart out and having fun while doing it. The panel of prestigious judges award points for the musical abilities of the individual participants while the audience votes for participants depending on their ability to entertain.

The competition is a product of 'Reach' (www.reachbeyondlimits.com) and therefore does not centre as much on winning as it does on participating with the right attitude – which is the attitude of fun and enjoyment! Therefore, Reach Light is an opportunity worth seizing – it offers more than just a chance to entertain or be entertained. It offers a chance to bond with other young people with similar interests and to embark on a journey of self-discovery and outpouring which is bound to be life-changing in the end. The event has been designed to open a door to a place of light for musician and music-lover alike; a place where the youth of this city can express themselves positively, productively and creatively, and be able to legitimately expect rewards for their effort!

Reach Light will be held at the Peoples' Church, Assembly of God, Kirimandala Mawatha, Narahenpita at 6.15 pm. The dates are October 12, 19 and 26, with the grand finale on November 2. Entrance is absolutely free! If you would like to vote for your favourite participant please be on time so you can collect your voting card without which you will not be able to vote (though you would still be able to be a part of the audience!). For details please refer to the website above.

Reach Light is guaranteed to be an enjoyable experience for all young Gospel Music lovers.