It was a night of thrills and cheers when all thirteen semifinalists of Viasat1’s talent show, Born Starz, took to the stage of the Accra International Conference Centre to showcase their talents.

It was also a night of emotions, as the judges found it quite difficult to decide which five contestants would take another step to get closer to the ultimate prize. Judge, David Oscar, wowed the crowd with some comedy, which also saw the CEO of Viasat1, Charlotte Gustavsson, exhibiting her ‘Azonto’ skills on stage.

The show kicked off with a performance from music trio, Purppries, who failed to meet the judges’ expectation. Bazoza was next with his dance moves, and although the crowd cheered him on, the judges were not so impressed.

Jack & Jill, who were favourites to win the competition, did not live up to expectation. All three judges, Ben Brako, Paulina Oduro, and David Oscar, complained of the “material” the comedians used. Kada’s performance also hit the rocks, even though the crowd laughed at his comedy.

It was Felicity’s performance that lit up the entire auditorium of the conference centre on the night. Her display of African cultural dance and her rendition of Becca’s ‘African Woman’ earned her a standing ovation from Ben Brako and Paulina Oduro; as David Oscar couldn’t help but to congratulate her as well.

Another surprising act came from Nero-X, who had received medical attention after he was involved in an accident on his way to the conference centre. Despite the minor surgery done on him, he put up an impressive performance to the admiration all three judges and the crowd.

After exciting performances from all thirteen contestants, Nero-X, Felicity, Maame Esi, Prince, and Divinity Blazers emerged finalists of Born Starz. Surprisingly, Nana Akua, Trinity, Rainbow and Purppries failed to progress to the finals.

With just days from the grand finale, the five finalists are already looking forward to putting up their best to win the ultimate prize. Among the prizes for the winner are an all-expense-paid trip to the UK, performances and appearance at Ghana’s Independent Day event in the UK, an exclusive photo shoot with Ghana’s best photographer Ernest Simons, and many more! The first and second runner-ups also receive consolation prizes.

The finals will be aired on Saturday January 12, 2013 at 8pm.