NBC’s hit show American’s Got Talent was localized Friday night when As One Gospel had a talent competition, entitled MSU Has Talent, in Akin Auditorium.

The event showcased abilities of 15 students with each contestant being judged on creativity, technicality, stage presence, crowd participation and overall performance.

The judges consisted of MSU Professor Judy Braddy, Vocal and Piano Teacher, Rachel Kapelski, and Dance Instructor Adreina Lawerence.

As One Gospel member Cornileus Roberson, who is overjoyed about how the event turned out, solely funded the talent show.

With spending over $300, Roberson said it was worth the sacrifice.

“It is a small price to pay for the development of our student life,” Roberson said. “I believe in this university and its success is very important to me.”

The purpose of the talent competitions was to provide an opportunity for students from diverse backgrounds to showcase their talents and cultures, Roberson said.

MSU students Erin Wrinkle and TJ Dotson played MC to the event. With their off-beat chemistry, Wrinkle and Dotson took the role of hosting very seriously, even having three costume changes.

The second performance of the night was a favorite for country music fans in the crowd as As One Gospel member Alexis Goodman sang “Contemporary Home” by Carrie Underwood.

Even though she didn’t win the competition, she said this talent show is a good example that Midwestern is more than just a school but a community and a family.

Songwriter Ashley Kittle received one of the biggest applause of the night with just her voice and guitar as she sang her original song, “Human Display.”

The As One Gospel group added their talents to the event as well in between performances.

The As On Gospel mime routine was a crowd favorite.

With their white faces and matching gloves, the three members were animated and it was a breath of fresh air for freshmen Monica Ross.

“I have never been exposed to that type of culture before,” Ross said. “I love how they were able to combine the word of gospel, dance, with a hint of humor.”

UK singer Adele was a stable in the talent show with two performers, Laurie Durrand and Cody Thomas covering her.

While Durrand serenaded the crowd with a more soulful rendition “Someone Like You”, MSU cheerleader Thomas belted out a melody of the same song with Adele’s other hit, “Rolling in the Deep.”

Durrand and Thomas’ talents were recognized by the judges as they both placed in the top three.

Thomas in third, winning $50. Durrand in second, winning $75.

It was the surprise performance the band Those Four Dudes who took the top prize, a trophy and $100.

The band with a bass, drum, guitar and Jamaica steel drum got the judges foot tapping during the song, “Mr. Magic.”

“Its a true testament to their talent when a band can beat out all of the great singers who performed,” sophomore William Brown said.

“Those Four Dudes were definitely the best of the night. They deserved to win.”

As One Gospel is always looking for new members, Roberson said.

The organization has something for every student from choir, dance, mime, step, spoken word and band.