The five artists have been part of a development programme run by Kempton Park-based Barrier Productions, which focused on the development of voice, tone and stage presence, and which culminates in the staging of “Places in my Mind”.

Written by Kevin Barnard, who owns Barrier Productions, “Places in my Mind” follows a day in the life of Martin Smith, a high-flyer brought low, who is one of the growing number of people we have come to know as traffic light beggars. It is an emotional ride of feeling, hunger pains and funny sights in the traffic.

“As parents, we find ourselves nurturing and encouraging our children's skills and talents,” says Barnard. “Many of today's stars began their musical careers at events as ordinary as school talent contests and, of course, there are more sophisticated contests available today in the form of things like Idols and Coca Cola Pop Stars.

“Our show is much more than a contest, however. It has always been about developing, guiding and assisting young people who can sing – giving them the opportunity to see the light and have the marketplace meet them.

“It has been about starting at the bottom and working hard – and, although the show is the top of the first stage, doors to a future in the music industry may open for some of these young people.”

More information about “Places in my Mind” can be found of the Barrier Productions' Web site www.livethemusic.co.za. Tickets will be available at Computicket from the beginning of June.