GenFactor returns to search for Sunderland's best singers

The annual talent show has launched this year’s search for the city’s best singers, bands, dance acts, choirs, musicians and comedians.

Now it its eighth year, the Genfactor is a competition organised by local housing provider Gentoo which aims to open up new opportunities for young people aged 11-18.

The competition, which brings together some of the most gifted performers in the region, also complements Sunderland’s City of Culture Bid 2021 by inspiring new talent, providing invaluable experience and exposure to the music and performing arts industry.

Last year’s final was held at the Rainton Meadows Arena, where 16 acts performed to a live audience of hundreds of people and a panel of five judges.

The winner was 12-year-old Mia Carney, a pupil from Farringdon Academy, who wowed the judges with her stage presence and confidence during her vocal performance of Black Heart by Stooshe.

Martin Longstaff, Lake Poets performer and Genfactor judge, said: “The Genfactor is great for the City of Sunderland.

“If you’ve got people behind you, like those at Genfactor encouraging you to do things and applauding you throughout it can only build your confidence and make you realise your potential.”

Drop in auditions will be held on March 31 from 10am to 2pm at Bede Tower; on April 4 from 10am to 2pm at Washington School and on April 7 from 10am to 2pm at Bede Tower.

All acts under 16 must be accompanied by an adult at the open audition. Singers will need to bring their backing track.