The Harlose named 2019 Geneva's Got Talent winner
On Thursday, June 20, The Harlose from Geneva were named the Geneva's Got Talent winner and won the $1,000 grand prize. The Harlose is a group composed of Lilija Banks, 8; Amelia Schultz, 14; and Layla Schultz, 8, who sing and play the ukulele.
The Geneva's Got Talent competition began June 1 with 40 acts auditioning at Playhouse 38. Sixteen acts moved on to compete in the semifinals June 19. However, due to inclement weather, the semifinals were moved from the outdoor Swedish Days Central Stage to the indoor stage at Playhouse 38.
Five acts went on to perform in the finals on June 20.
The five finalists were:
• Mary Beall
• Ryan Hajek
• The Harlose
• Grace Lenaghan
• Rocco Loffredi
Judges included Terry Skreens (Sounds Like Music), Haley Skreens (Sounds Like Music), Dan Yotz, (Sound Sculptor), Steve Marten (WBIG Radio), Roy Thatcher (Sounds Like Music), Leah Leman, Heather Klaus (SoleUnique Dance Complex), Matt Benner (Sounds Like Music).
Geneva Mayor Kevin Burns served as Geneva's Got Talent emcee.
"This is a great event that brings the community and people of all ages together for free summer fun. The array of talent each year is just phenomenal," said Traci Wicks, director of marketing and public relations for the Geneva Park District.
Geneva's Got Talent is a collaboration between the Geneva Park District and the Geneva Chamber of Commerce. It was part of the 2019 Swedish Days Festival supported by Northwestern Medicine.
For information about Geneva Chamber of Commerce, visit genevachamber.com. For details about the Geneva Park District, visit genevaparks.org.