Cirencester College student calls for backing in UK-wide music contest (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

Cirencester College student calls for backing in Open Mic UK regional final

9:30am Tuesday 18th September 2012 in News By Laura Shack

A SENSATIONAL singer from Cirencester College is hoping to follow in the footsteps of British pop-star Jessie J after making it through to the regional final of Open Mic UK.

Bryony Throup, 16, will perform in front of competition judges at Bristol’s St George’s Theatre on September 30 after breezing through auditions last month.

The talented teenager, from Bussage, is one of 30 performers in the regional final of the UK-wide contest, which in the past has helped launch the careers of Jessie J and rapper Chipmunk.

Now, Bryony needs the backing of her fellow Cirencester College students because it is not only the judges but also the audience at the Bristol final who can vote for their favourite act.

The winner will perform at the national final at the O2 Arena in London on January 19 next year in front of audience of celebrities, music industry insiders and the media.

Bryony said: "I had a bad cold and couldn't breathe when I went to the audition, so it was a real shock to get through.

"Now I'm actually really scared about the final because there are some good singers in the competition. I've got my family coming along to support me and I'm hoping some of my friends will be there too."

Tickets to watch Bryony perform in Bristol cost £8 and can be ordered via her Facebook page at facebook.com/bryonyjadethroup