Deane James Connaghan from Mountcharles.
A MOUNTCHARLES singer wowed the crowd and judging panel at the Open Mic UK Regional Showcase, and he is now one step away from performing at The O2 in London.
Thousands of acts entered Open Mic UK 2012, including Deane James Connaghan from Mountcharles, and the best unsigned singers from across the country were chosen to perform at the live Regional Final shows.
Deane performed in front of a live audience and professional judging panel on October 7 at the Beck Theatre in Hayes, London.
He is now set to perform at the Area Final for the chance to progress to the National Grand Final at The O2 in London on January 19, 2013.
Those who made it through the audition stage took part in a live Regional head-to-head battle alongside the best talent in their area.
Acts performed in front of hundreds of audience members and industry judges for the chance to grab a breakthrough recording contract.
Deane was supported on the night by friends and family who had made the trip from Mountcharles, Donegal Town, Birmingham and Wales.
Deane performed a cover of an Emile Sande song Breaking The Law and was one of the five acts put through on the night to the Area Finals in November.
Deane also won the exposure award on the night thanks to the support of local Donegal papers who had spread the word about the OPEN MIC UK competition. Deane will receive free vocal lessons as reward.
There’s over £50,000 in prizes up for grabs this year and the overall winner getting significant investment. They’ll also have the opportunity to tour across the UK.
Deane is currently living in London and has just been signed to management. He is playing exciting venues in London in the coming months including ‘The Pheasantry’ Club and the infamous jazz venue Ronnie Scotts. www.deanejames.com