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Hero image for McDonald's Young Entertainers - 1999 Grand Final

McDonald's Young Entertainers - 1999 Grand Final

Television (Full Length Episode) – 1999

Jason Gunn hosted this popular late 90s teen talent quest. In the show's last grand final, held at Wellington's Te Papa museum, King Kapisi and Stacey Morrison assess the year's finalists. They include two family groups, and 11-year-old Hayley Westenra performing ‘The Mists of Islay’ — which Westenra later recorded after she found global fame. Also appearing is another young prodigy: Singapore-born violinist Vanessa Mae. The show's resident singing and dancing troupe includes future Sticky TV presenter Drew Neemia, future journalist Adrian Stevenon, and future White Sox softballer Tianna Areaiiti.

You’re the most confident 11-year-old that I’ve met … I think you have a very long career ahead of you in music.
– King Kapisi reviews Hayley Westenra's performance of 'The Mists of Islay'

Produced by

Denis Spencer Productions

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