Brentwood, CA, January 2004 – 13-year-old Lisa Tenorio has won the prestigious Omni Award for Best Solo Classical Performance at the 2004 Omni Awards, held at Brentwood's renowned Skirball Center. The event is held annually and produced by B.I.A.P.A. and the International Academy of Performing Arts.
“The format of the Omni Awards presentation is like a mini Academy Awards show,” said Lisa. “The presenters of the awards are young TV and movie stars.” Coincidentally, Lisa's presenter was one of her favorite child stars from Nickelodeon’s hit series, All That.
The Omni Awards and the International Academy of Performing Arts founder/director is Ms. Marlene Dove. Ms. Dove has also been a member of the National Academy of Recording Arts and Science for 20 years. Like Lisa, Ms. Dove is a soprano. She debuted her own career at the world famous Carnegie Hall in New York. Proceeds from the Omni Awards assists many after-school enrichment programs in the Los Angeles area, as well as provide scholarships to the financially challenged.
Over 200 talented children and young adults from around California auditioned for a chance to become an Omni Award finalist. Only selected performers were invited to participate in the program. The talent was top-tier, with a couple of acts coming off wins on TV’s Star Search. The judges consisted of entertainment and corporate executives.
“Talent wise, Lisa was in very good company,” said Ms. Dove. “Lisa is an exceptional talent and has a rare and natural gift for her age. She has one of the most impressive voices today as compared to some of the other young and successful classical singers.” This year’s Omni Lifetime Achievement recipient, film and television star Sally Kirkland, also personally congratulated Lisa.
Standing off stage when her name was announced, Lisa stood motionless. “I couldn’t believe they called my name. I was shocked!” Then the reality of her hard work quickly began setting in. She took a deep breath, walked on stage as her gorgeous pink chiffon dress reflected in the theatre’s spotlight. She accepted the award and gave an elegant acceptance speech. “It was an incredible moment,” said Lisa, youthful smile lighting her face.
Music and television producers were scattered among the audience hoping to discover their next young star. As Lisa was leaving back stage, proudly holding her award, a producer from Star Search walked up, handed her his business card, and said, “Kid, you were wonderful. Please have your mom or dad give me a call.”
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