X Factor judge Louis Walsh was ‘blown away’ by the level of talent he viewed when he visited Beam Creative Network in Donaghmore as a guest of their ImagineAction project.

Louis was joined by Boyzone star and All Ireland Talent Show judge Shane Lynch at the showcase which saw forty teenagers take to the stage in a bid to illustrate the skills in dance and drama they have learned in the first year of ImagineAction.

ImagineAction is part of Connections, the  Northern Ireland programme set up to help build a cultural and sporting legacy from the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic games. Managed by the Arts Council, the £1.78million Connections programme will see a series of sports and arts linked events taking place across Northern Ireland over the course of the next three years.
 
ImagineAction has been granted the London 2012 Inspire Mark, the badge of the London 2012 Inspire Programme which recognizes exceptional and innovative projects inspired by the London 2012 Olympic Games.

Speaking after the showcase, aptly titled ‘ImagineAction Factor’, Louis spoke of the level of talent he had witnessed. He said:
“It is evident that a lot of hard work was put into today’s performance and it was my pleasure to see the enthusiasm of everyone involved. ImagineAction is a fantastic vehicle for young kids and it is a credit to Beam Creative Network and all involved in giving our youth such a wonderful opportunity.”

Shane Lynch visited Beam Creative Network in November when he gave the children a master class and today he was impressed with the vast improvement in their confidence and performing skills. He said:
“There is a high level of true talent shining through the ImagineAction project and it is my pleasure to be here today to encourage the teenagers involved.”