No rest for the Talented! Sam Verlinden & Jordan Jansen

Sam Verlinden at home

What can I say? This guy never rests! If I had just finished performing nearly every night in a musical, singing until my voice was raw, looking into bright lights and sweating with heavy costuming, while fighting off the headache that usually comes from lack of rest for over three weeks, I’d be ready for a vacation. But then, I’m not                                 Twelve year old Sam Verlinden!

Not only has Sam been doing “Tommy the Musical” for over a month but last week started rehearsing for his next stage performance in “Oliver”. Whew! I’m getting tired just writing this!
♫ More Great News!    ♫
Sam also took First Place at WonderWorld TV last week with his entry for “I’ll be There”.  He now has two Golden Ribby Award entries to to vote for.
  1. I’ll be There with 52,075 current votes
  2. Who’s loven you with 74,255 current votes

Two is always better than one however the fans will have to be smart and pick their favorite in order for Sam to capture this ultimate prize!  He will need to triple these votes. Don’t forget, you can continue to vote as many times as you like everyday. The award date has still not been set so don’t waste any time with your voting.

Sam’s remaining video entries are currently on HOLD but you can still vote for your next favorite to win.
The HOLD is only temporary as has been explained before. So Vote now Vote Five!
“Ben” Television performance
“Ben the Tribute”, dedicated to Michael Jackson
“I Believe I Can Fly” by R. Kelly

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Jordan is still holding a substantial lead for First Place with his contest entry at Soundcheck. The contest is in round Eight and he has 1,671 votes currently. But don’t stop because Jordan has the Music in him and deserves this WIN!

Also don’t forget to vote for Jordan’s Golden Ribby Award song: “Hallelujah”

“Who’s” Tommy? Sam Verlinden that’s Who!

Tommy Banner

Sam Verlinden Exclusive!
Sam Verlinden has done an outstanding job in this years production of Tommy the Musical.
Directed by James Wenley in conjunction with The University of Auckland’s Stage Two Productions and Theatre of Love, Tommy has been running since September 30th.
What you are about to see, hear and feel can only be described as a perfect performance by young Sam Verlinden as “Tommy”.  Sam seemed to show more intensity in the past few shows, belting out his solo with such demanding forcefulness and convincing exuberance.
Rivenmaster’s Place is honored to present this very special video excerpt of Monday nights performance, followed by an interview with Sam Verlinden and Director James Wenley!
Special Note!  You may want to put on your headphones so you can focus in on Sam’s voice as this video and audio is presented as if you were actually siting in the audience.
Sam celebrating his 12 birthday on set of TommySam not only gained the respect of theatre goers but also won the admiration and respect of the entire cast.  They showed Sam their appreciation by helping him celebrate his birthday with a special time of cake, gifts and refreshments. This was a very special time for Sam and I’m sure he will never forget their kindness.

Sam backstage on "Tommy"

Sam is shown here with his favorite birthday gift from his family a new PSP, which kept him busy during the down times.  He is shown here sitting amongst the costumes taking a break.

Caught ya Sam!
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