Submitted by Jonathan Humphries; Lo’ihi Studios
The highly anticipated season finale of Kona Icon concluded with a bang Tuesday night at MyBar, leaving audience members mesmerized by a night of exceptional performances. As the final episode unfolded, tension mounted as contestants Waylon, Ruby, Koa, Dibble, Jharne, and Alex vied for the coveted grand prize. Each competitor delivered stellar performances, showcasing their immense talent and dedication to their craft.
The panel of esteemed judges, comprising Binti, DJ NTU, and Alan from the renowned punk band El Sancho, faced the daunting task of determining the top contenders. With the competition fiercer than ever, the judges deliberated over each act, with a mere 14-point difference separating the top three finalists out of a possible 600 points.
Ultimately, Ruby clinched third place with a captivating performance, while Jharne secured second with her remarkable stage presence. However, it was Dibble who stole the show, winning both the crowd and the judges’ hearts with an unforgettable rendition of Queen’s “Somebody to Love.” His pitch-perfect performance and undeniable charisma propelled him to first place, solidifying his status as the season’s ultimate icon.
As the curtains closed on another thrilling season of Kona Icon, Dibble’s triumph served as a testament to the raw talent and passion showcased throughout the competition, leaving fans eagerly anticipating what the future holds for these rising stars.
Kona Icon, marked its debut season at MyBar while capturing the essence of local talent and community spirit. A joint venture between Levitation Entertainment and Lō`ihi Studios, the show provided a platform for aspiring artists to shine, culminating in an unforgettable season finale.
The journey began with auditions, where hopeful contestants had the opportunity to submit audition reels online before showcasing their skills live at MyBar. Over 40 individuals stepped up to the challenge, with only 12 advancing to the Semi-Finals and a select six earning their spot in the highly anticipated finals.
While Kona Icon marked its inaugural season in Kona, the creative minds behind the show had previously introduced Hilo Idol at the Hilo Town Market in 2023, laying the foundation for this West Side community-centric talent showcase.
Sponsored by a lineup of local businesses including MyBar, HawaiiWatchLive.com, The Wave, Netcom, and Big Island Pulse, Kona Icon not only celebrated talent but also fostered collaboration and support within the community.
As the curtain fell on a remarkable first season, the overwhelming success of Kona Icon hinted at the potential for future editions to become beloved annual fixtures in Hawaii’s entertainment landscape. Keep an eye on the news feeds, as these community-building shows are poised to capture the hearts of audiences year after year.
