The stage of the Cook Islands Has Talent show will come alive this Saturday with incredible voices and performances as contestants battle in the semifinals, each bringing their unique vocals, flair and passion to the spotlight.

Fourteen talented contestants will be rocking the stage at Staircase Bar, vying for the first prize of $3000.

Over the weekend, eight performers showcased talented performances in the second heat of the event. The six from heat one and eight from the weekend all progressed to the semifinals.

The judges for the “Cook Islands Has Talent” are Sisi Short, Tupa Tupa, Mona Taio and Paul Lynch.

Ma Lourdes Bode from the Philippines impressed the judges who all voted for her to proceed to the semis.

Stephan Mae Cabangon, the “little lady with a huge voice” also from the Philippines, had a good control of vocals singing “One Moment in Time” by Whitney Housten.

Nina Theresa Newbauer from Germany sang the popular Tahitian song “Te manu hoata” by Raumata Tetuanui, impressing the judges and the audience with her courage.

Champion dancer Nicolea Mateariki gracefully executed her dancing skills on stage, carrying the song with absolute confidence and a captivating big smile and personality.

Delightful 20-year-old Reeana Aviu started rehearsing her selected song that afternoon from 2pm.

Aviu selected a big song “Lose Control” by American singer-songwriter Teddy Swims. She sang with such control, showcasing her talent and connecting deeply with the audience, giving one of the judge’s “goosebumps”.

Zorayoa “Haydee” Dato from the Philippines delivered a stunning rendition of Aretha Franklin’s “Respect”. Her amazing voice and personality hit the high notes as she delivered a gutsy performance.

Multi-talented Terā-'itirere-ki-Avaiki “Mama Ra” Rongo’s golden performance as well as Tarita Thompson’s beautiful and inspiring performance, singing and playing the electric guitar, also thrilled the crowd.

The six contestants from the first heat include Ake Frederick; The Up Down Kutia’s Ukarere Team - Derek Doherty, Ariki Enoka, Maria Grace and Kalani Pearman; Lurlin Tekoronga; Hewett Napa; Tanga Morris and Solomone Taukei.

Tickets for the semifinals this Saturday are now on sale. Entry tickets are $15 per person, special family tickets are also available.

Call Sisi Short, the organiser of the show, on phone 52881 to purchase tickets during the week.

Proceeds from the Cook Islands Has Talent Show will go towards the construction of the Fale Niue (Hostel) in Tupapa.