From the Liveblog of
Wednesday, July 17, 2024
Israeli-Palestinian youth choir advances out of audition round on ‘America’s Got Talent’
Jacob Magid is The Times of Israel's US bureau chief
A youth choir made up of Israelis and Palestinians has advanced through the audition round of the “America’s Got Talent” TV show after a rendition of Phillip Phillips’ “Home” that visibly moved all four judges.
Describing themselves to the judges after their performance, one of the Palestinian members of the Jerusalem Youth Chorus says they’re “a group of Palestinians and Israelis. We believe through music and through working together and talking to each other, we are taking a step forward into building that amazing future where there is justice and there is freedom and there is equality and there is inclusion.”
Asked what they’ll do if they win the $1 million prize, an Israeli member responds, “We will create more spaces just like this chorus so that people can meet people who are different from them, so we can create this change.”
As the voting begins, Heidi Klum tells the Jerusalem Youth Chorus that their song gave her goosebumps and praised their harmony.
The Jerusalem Youth Chorus brings unity and harmony to @AGT! ????✌️ #AGT #AGTAuditions pic.twitter.com/tF236qptlJ
— AGT Auditions (@AGTAuditions) July 17, 2024
Jewish judge Howie Mandel echoes Klum. “I got those same goosebumps. This is a world anthem. We all live on this planet together and thank you so much for appearing on that stage.”
“Spectacular. Heartwarming. The voices are amazing. It was inspiring. What a treat,” adds Sophia Vergara.
The sometimes prickly Simon Cowell is similarly touched. “I love this audition. You made something very complicated beautiful through friendship,” he says.
All four judges vote to move the Israeli-Palestinian choir on to the next round to cheers from the audience.
“You guys symbolize so much for so many right now. Thank you,” AGT host Terry Crews tells the elated teens backstage.
