There has always been a wide variety of talent on America’s Got Talent, including unconventional dancers, magicians, and vocalists. Sometimes a performance truly steals the stage, but every season brings a fresh crop of incredible talents.
Paige Glenn and Artyon Celestine, a teenage dance team, stunned the judges and audience this season with their upbeat rendition of the classic 80s hit song “Footloose.”
Artyon and Paige, both nine years old, are used to the AGT stage. Although the young couple has previously wowed onlookers with their exuberant dance skills, this time they produced something genuinely original.
In their previous rendition of “Barbie Girl,” their charm and authenticity created a stir, but “Footloose” was a salute to the nostalgia of the 1980s that had everyone dancing. Even before they took the stage in their retro-inspired costumes, you could tell they were going to provide a performance that would be remembered.
During each beat of the music, Paige and Artyon executed moves that would challenge the abilities of even the most seasoned dancers. Their excellent synchronicity and faultless dancing caused the audience to shout.
It was difficult for the judges, who have high standards, to believe that two kids could do such a challenging dance. Their confidence was immediately praised by judge Howie Mandel, who noted that they performed with the energy and skill of dancers twice their age.
Heidi Klum was overcome with admiration and said she thought she was witnessing a professional dancing competition. Clearly moved, judge Sofia Vergara commented on how nice it was to witness such emotion from such young dancers. Never one to give unequivocal praise, Simon Cowell simply shook his head in amazement and said they were “born to be stars.”
The judges gave Paige and Artyon a well-deserved standing ovation, and the audience erupted in applause as the performance came to an end. The stage was illuminated by Paige and Artyon’s smiles as they received their compliments.
While their performance was an incredible display of genius, it also served as a reminder of the beauty that happens when young talent is given the chance to shine.
