Palmetto’s stage came to life Thursday, February 11, when 63 students took the chance to shine and let the school see their talents. The two-and-a-half hour production- the second annual Panthers Got Talent- featured singers, dancers, and a wide variety of other performers.

Senior Dyalmis Izquierdo came in third place with her rendition of “Forget You” and seniors Logan Gardipee and Silas Saunders ended up in second place for their singing/rapping duet. “Team Nitro,” a raving dance group won “Best Showmanship.” First prize went to breakdancing senior Brian Blum, who also came in first place for his magic trick “Metamorphosis” at the event last year.

“I was speechless. I never expected to win, not even to place, I was sure either Logan or Joshua Quartin [who performed a martial arts act] would take first,” Blum said. “I thought the fact that I won last year would be my downfall.”

Many of the students in attendance were also surprised by Blum’s repeat win. Junior Kelly Ma enjoyed the show, but had her own favorite performer.

“Although Brian’s performance was cute and funny, I thought Josh’s [Joshua Quartin’s] was better,” Ma said. “Overall, I had a great time.”

Nine out of the twenty-three performances were bands. While none of these students placed, they did find the experience to be a good opportunity.

“We wanted to gain new fans for our band,” said junior Harlan Pocquette, who performed with junior Courtney Welbon, in the band “Town.” “It was fun to see all the people with talents.”

The O’Interact club created the event not only as a chance for students to showcase their talents but also as an opportunity to raise money for the less fortunate.

“We did our first one [Panthers Got Talent] last year to raise money for charity,” O’Interact sponsor Dee Jordan said. “This year the money is going to South Asia for clean water and part to Haiti.”