Preliminary judges Roy Rayon and David Wedderburn were abrupt in their dismissal of those contestants that simply had not practised, had poor song choices or who felt they had talent but didn't. Hopefuls with off-key voices came out in their numbers, some only managing to get out a few words before being dismissed.

Others were very nervous as the judges encouraged them, "yuh haffi sell off if you're gonna be a star, yuh need to really sing." The judges reminded the contestants that this was their chance to be a big star and that they should utilise the opportunity. However, only a few took their advice to heart.

While a number of persons came with original songs the judges asked them to sing popular songs to test their voices, and while some impressed others were told to "practise and come back for the next auditions."

Some comedic acts had the audience in stitches with interesting lyrics, while a number of deejays tried out but only a few went ahead.

THE STAR caught up with one deejay before his audition who said, "dem a tell mi seh deejays neva win Rising Stars but if dem turn mi down today mi a deh at every audition!"

Others were outside practising. Some were, looking confident, however, many others were obviously nervous, not wanting to face judge Anthony Miller, who they thought was judging that day.

The day was not without its oddities. Dancer Ranking Joe. dressed in a brown vest, hat and wig, Joe contorted his body and performed his antics on the wet ground. Ranking Joe told THE STAR that he had just left South Africa to entertain the people at the Rising Stars auditions.

At the end of a long day some contestants left crestfallen, some completely shocked and others were near to tears as they were denied a chance to be a star.

The day was not a complete loss, however, as there were a few stand out performances, including the last minute entry of Officer Rose. THE STAR observed the female police officer at the gates of the auditions practising all evening with a fine singing voice. Rose was convinced by host Yendi Phillipps to take her talent to the stage and Yendi even followed Rose inside in support. She instantly impressed, and the Digicel Rising Stars auditions in Mandeville ended with a big wrap.

Left:This contestant appeared to have taken his performance quite seriously. Right: Janet Thomas came decked out in her gown.

Members of the audience cheer for their favourites.

Left: This contestant looked a little nervous as she performed. Right: This man is in deep concentration as he performed recently at the Digicel Rising Stars audition.