PHS grad receives awards at Hollywood contest

Mandi Miller, a 1988 Pendleton High School graduate, garnered six awards in the World Championships of Performing Arts. More than 75,000 applicants from 40 countries auditioned for a spot to compete in the event, held July 6-15 in Hollywood, Calif.

Miller competed for New Zealand, where she has lived for nearly 15 years, said her mother, DiAnna Miller.

She received a pair of overall awards for the 25 and over division in the female vocal self accompanied in contemporary and rock. She also won gold medals in both categories in ages 30 and over. In addition, she received bronze medals in female vocals country and western and rhythm and blues/soul/jazz in the 30 and over division.

“Judges for this competition are well-known members of the national music field in America and the exposure for Mandi is priceless,” DiAnna said.

While in the United States, Mandi visited Pendleton, where she performed before a hometown crowd July 19 at Pendleton Center for the Arts.

Mandi returned home to Christchurch, where she has been chosen to enter the second go-round for New Zealand’s Got Talent, DiAnna said.

“So, we are now awaiting word as to whether or not she will be continuing on to the finals for the show,” she said.