HJ Stars Audition Highlights Diverse Talent

Photos courtesy of HJ Stars

“The HJ Stars audition went a lot longer than expected, because we got double the submissions than we were expecting — but it was an incredible turnout,” said Resfred Arthur, co-host of HJ Stars and the FFWPU USA Northeast secretary general. “The purpose of HJ Stars is to raise funds for YAYAM but also help cultivate and showcase talent from around the country.”

The preliminary round of the HJ Stars auditions was an immediate hit, streaming live July 22 with more than 2,000 views. The competition also raised some $6,000 for the Youth and Young Adult Ministry (YAYAM). 

“We thank everyone who donated,” said Resfred, as he presented audition highlights during an FFWPU USA Leaders’ meeting July 26. “We had 56 submissions that were all very incredible ... There was so much talent that was amazing to see.” 

From choreographed dancing, singing, piano playing and guitar strumming, to heartfelt poetry and colorful artwork, the talent pool was diverse and impressive. A total of 19 candidates from across the country advanced to the semi-finals, as well as one participant from London. The Northeast alone had eight participants continue on in the competition.

“We have a glance of what’s to come with our semi-finalists,” said Resfred. “Every region is represented, and even one person from Europe, so let’s continue to support them.”

While some contestants were individual performers, others were an entire crew, such as the LA CARP Dancers. There were even couples in the mix who auditioned together, as all submissions were evaluated by three guest judges with backgrounds in the arts. “I’m so excited to see all this new talent,” said judge Jonathan Gullery, a longtime designer and pianist.

HJ Stars channels the great passion True Parents have for the arts, as they founded the renowned Little Angels ballet troupe and the Hyojeong Youth Orchestra (HJYO), among many more creative endeavors. “This is the power of art,” True Father said. “It allows people who don’t understand each other’s language to communicate. It lets people who don’t know about each other’s history understand each other’s hearts.”

The HJ Stars semi-final round is scheduled for August 5. Donations submitted in a specific region will go toward that region’s YAYAM chapter. The grand prize winner will receive $1,000, the second place winner will receive $500, and the third place prize is $250.

You can donate and tune in to HJ Stars here, and watch the full preliminary round of auditions here.