BEIRUT – Saudi-owned TV MBC 4's top-rated hit programme ‘Arabs Got Talent' has crowned Egyptian poet Amr Qattamesh the winner of its first season, after 13 weeks since its initial airing. Performing to millions of viewers, Qattamesh beat out 12 finalists to take home the long-awaited title of ‘Star of the Arab World'. In one of the fiercest Pan-Arab competitions to air on TV, Qattamesh performed a monologue act of “Halamantishi” poetry, known for its social critique and made the judges laugh and cry in response to his exceptional talent. Falling in second place, Moroccan speed painter Noureddine Ben Waqes, stunned the audience with his new ‘puzzle painting' that revealed the iconic face of Lebanese star Farid al-Atrash. Winning third place, Saudi illusionist Ahmed al-Bayed, did not falter in keeping the judges and viewers perplexed and on their toes. The remaining contestants performed distinct shows with Johnny Madness in Beat Box, Casa Acrobate in choreographed acrobatics, Ziad Alyan and Family Crew in Hip Hop dance, Elie Dahdah in Opera, X Wheels in roller skating , Shaimaa el-Meghery in sand drawing, Al Fayhaa in Acapella, and not to mention 10-year-old Issam Bashiti in fervent poetry for Palestine and humanity. Commenting on his win, Qattamesh stressed the importance of the message behind his performances. Qattamesh also said that his success was mainly due to his innovative show, which combined poetry, drama and comedy. Mazen Hayek, MBC's Group Director of PR and Commercial and spokesperson, said: “Arabs Got Talent is a true celebration of culture and expression, it featured a colourful array of hopeful stars all aiming to win the hearts and minds of Arab viewers. This success is evidence to the promising second season which is expected to be “bigger and better” and will welcome more diverse talents and auditions.” The second season of ‘Arabs Got Talent'will open in June, and will be held across 13 countries in the region. Prospective candidates can go to www.mbc.net/agt to get more information.
