Pinoy group passes AGT audition

MANILA, Philippines — Filipinos making it in international competitions is always welcome news to everyone out here. That’s why when a Filipino dance group, Junior New System, made it past the audition stage in America’s Got Talent (AGT) Season 13, it was readily a cause for celebration. Not just for the group members, but for many Filipinos who became proud of the Junior New System.

The 11-member, all-male group from Sampaloc, Manila is composed of street children who simply dreamed of making a better life for themselves. Back in 2015, Junior New System auditioned for Asia’s Got Talent and landed in the finals.

“This is our dream, to be in this, the world’s biggest stage, in America’s Got Talent,” said one member. “We are very thankful.” The group has been dancing for nine years and they are all neighbors.

In the AGT audition, Junior New System danced precisely in high heels, which was what made them impress the judges, who gave the boys a standing ovation. “What just happened?” shouted judge Mel B. “The heels, the flipping, the choreography, I wasn’t expecting it. You’ve come all the way from the Philippines. I love you!”

Judge Howie Mandel was likewise thrilled after seeing the boys. “This was amazing,” he remarked. “Before you even started the emotion that you had and showing us your heart, telling us what this meant to you. You are the epitome of dreams coming true.”

Judge Heidi Klum commented, “I love the music. I love your dancing. I have no idea how you do you the flip and you land on your heels. That was insane. You guys just really woke me up.”

Simon Cowell, who was also in Britain’s Got Talent, is back as a judge in AGT. “I thought the first half of the act, I’ve kind of seen it before,” Simon said of Junior New System’s presentation. “Then the second half, when the heels come out, the personality comes through and you just blow the audience away.”

AGT had a sinister and creepy teaser, Cabin by the Creek, featuring the judges, with host Tyra Banks, that was a great come-on for viewers to anticipate the show. The show airs Thursdays, 6 p.m. on AXN.

“People ask me if a new star will be born this season and I say ‘no,’” said Howie. “I say ‘new stars.’”

“This show to me is all about the people,” said Simon. “They trust the show enough to tell the audience about the show. It’s the most inspiring thing about the show.”

Michael Ketterer, a pediatric nurse, originally from East Tennessee but now resides in Orange County, California, bragged that his family — his wife and six children — is the reason he joined AGT.

“I have five adopted children, who came out of foster care,” Michael offered. “One of the most rewarding things is providing them with a home and a safe environment, where they’re free to dream. I want to show my kids that if their dad can live out his dreams, then nothing is impossible for them.”

On just the second episode of AGT, Michael got a standing ovation from the judges after he delivered a powerful rendition of The Bee Gees’ To Love Somebody. Simon unhesitatingly gave him a Golden Buzzer.

“If we find singers on this show, it was a question of is it about being technical or relevant,” Simon said. “Sometimes, to me, it’s just about being real and a surprise, being honest with you. You were so nervous. I was just concerned for you. But I think, sometimes, actions speak louder than words. Your voice is special and everything was perfect. You deserve that (Golden Buzzer).”

Michael was the second Golden Buzzer act, after AGT host Tyra also sent an Australian acrobatic dance group, Zurcaroh, to the live rounds.