Shanaya Atkinson-Jones, 18 years old from Chestnuts, School Aycliffe, is an ex- Greenfield, ex-Darlington College Student. She is a member of Acorn Players and winner of  the first “Aycliffe Got Talent” contest. Shanaya sang in the “Joseph” production and played one of the brothers. She has sung at the Sage and performed at many local venues including weddings. Her dream is to have a singing career using her powerful voice and love of Soul to perform R&B and Gospel songs. She entered the U.K. Open Mic Competition in the 16 to 20yr. old group and on Sunday 18th September secured place in the live regional final.  There were hundreds of entrants in front of 5 judges.-  Shanaya sang a Jennifer Hudson cover for 2 minutes accapello. The regional final takes place at The Tyne Theatre & Opera House, Newcastle Upon Tyne, on Sunday
23rd October at 3.45pm Tickets are £9 each and it would be lovely if she had support from the local community. Should Shanaya be successful she would secure a place in the U.K. Final. Now taking time in the recording studio to prepare for her performance. GOOD LUCK!