Entrants perform at the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission National Children's Gospel Song Festival Finals, held at Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre in 2005.

The Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre, on Hope Road, St. Andrew will be soaring this Sunday as Jamaica's youngest and most talented gospel singers compete in the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission's National Children's Gospel Competition.

Several children, all under 15 years old, will compete in both soloist and choirs sections.

Last year, voices reigned at the venue, and judges ruled Gavin Proshe of the Port Antonio Theatre Group and Sheldon Anderson of St. Catherine winners of the soloist categories.

Danielle Hopkins, public relations co-ordinator at JCDC, said that the competition is strictly intended for the promotion and development of child singers.

Brightest and most talented

"Since inception the competition has assisted and identified some of the brightest and most talented young singers, many of whom go on to participate in other national and international competitions," said Ms. Hopkins.

The Children's Gospel Competition began in 2003 after the JCDC realised that they received several entries in the Jamaica Gospel Song Competition from persons under age 16.

Previous to the children's gospel finals, younger entrants in the national competition were judged according to the same standard that older persons in the competition were.

Gospel recording artiste Prodigal will also be performing at the competition on Sunday, which begins at 6:00 p.m. and admission is $400 for adults and $200 for children. There is a special group rate of 20 persons and more, $350 for adults.

shelly-ann.thompson@gleanerjm.com