Three area residents win at Olympic Performing Arts

Three Spencerport residents participated in the World Championships of the Performing Arts in October in Hollywood, California. Considered "The Olympics" of the entertainment world, this year's event included 1,500 delegates from 30 countries who competed in acting, modeling, singing, music, comedy and dance. Fifty delegates from the Rochester area participated.

Karen Okeen says she was discovered at one of her karaoke appearances for her company, A+ Starr Karaoke & DJ Services, by talent scouts looking for individuals to represent New York and the U.S.A. in the World Championships. She was asked to sing and act representing the U.S.A. Team of over 500 performers. She came home with a third place; a bronze medal in acting and says she was offered a movie. Karen Okeen owns a few businesses in the entertainment world as well as Red Carpet Unisex Salon. She is also a talent scout and promoter.

Melissa Okeen competed in acting, modeling, and singing. She won a bronze medal in acting. She says she has been asked to do a movie and also a commercial.

Steve Okeen competed in acting, modeling and singing. He won a bronze medal in acting and a silver medal in modeling. He also will appear in the televised portion of the event which will be broadcast on PAX TV. He says he was asked to do a commercial, a soap opera and a movie.