I was saddened to learn that Susan Boyle came in second. She was the reason for my interest and my mini involvement with a talent show. Now that this is over, I won't be watching any of it.

Before posting this, I googled the Diversity performance, curious to see what their appeal was. They have energy and they have practiced a lot. Their choreography was interesting but not overpowering. As far as I am concerned, the music they danced to belongs in the box it came in. But it bowled over an unsophisticated audience and jungle rhythms seem, in recent years, to hypnotize a popular audience.

I was in the dance world for years and for me, their message was ho hum, a beautifully executed gimmick. I don’t wish them ill, but I don’t think they deserved the prize. I also do not think what they do has any longevity. So they should enjoy their 15 minutes of fame while they have it while I can easily see Susan’s CDs having a longevity that rivals Sinatra’s.

Susan, will have her dream because it wasn’t about winning a competition but about having a professional career. Simon Cowell is pursuing an album contract for her. Andrew Lloyd Webber has expressed interest in using her in a musical and I will buy her CDs. I wouldn’t walk around the block to see the kids.

I also think the Queen should invite Susan to perform despite her not getting the no. one win. That would truly mean something. But the Queen doesn’t have very much imagination, so I don’t expect her to think of it.

There was a snippet on one of the web sites that suggested that children should not be allowed to compete. That makes sense to me. The cute factor should not be part of it. It’s the old “The dog plays Chess, wow.” Where it should really be all about, “Yes, but he loses.” Or they should womp up a separate talent show for children only. Then we can all o.d. on “cute”.

xx, Teal