Mario Naccarato - Founder of TSGT & Producer
Mario Naccarato created The Soo's Got Talent in 2018 and has helped to raise money for the Canadian Cancer Society, ARCH, the SSM Brain Injury Association, and the CAP Unit at The Sault Area Hospital. He's a singer, actor, graphic designer, 3D architectural designer, and writer. Born and raised in Sault Ste. Marie, he started singing at a young age. A man of many passions, after high school he went to Fanshawe College to follow his dream of being an urban designer and graduated in 1996. Being actively involved in the London Karaoke Scene, Mario hosted Karaoke at many London establishments and, as a result, got a chance to be one of the many lead vocalists for the Old Chicago's Blues Band. He moved back to the Sault in 2002 to continue DJ'ing and hosting karaoke. In 2007, he replied to an online ad to audition to be a singer for a rock cover band called Coverfly and was with them until 2017. His first taste of musical theatre was in 2012, when he played "Badger" in a small production of The Wind in the Willows. He continued his passion for acting in 2019 with Shrek, The Musical, and most recently, The West End Theatre's production of Priscilla, The Musical.
Photo courtesy of Paul Conway
Darren Robertson - Producer & Judge
With 40 years experience as a musician and 30 years composing, Darren bring a wealth of experience to the table. In 2018, Darren joined The Soo's Got Talent as a judge for their inaugural year. Over the years, his involvement has grown steadily, and committed to continuing his contributions.
The Soo's Got Talent is more than just a talent competition; it's a platform for giving back to the community. It allows Darren to support local artists in multiple ways, which is incredibly rewarding. As the owner/operator of Soo Now (www.soo-now.ca), Darren is able to leverage his business to further support The Soo's Got Talent.
Valerie Powley - TSGT Judge
Actively making music for over 50 years with local bands and musical theatre has been such a fulfilling joy to my heart. I have learned so much from so many amazing musicians I call my friends. I am happiest sharing music and helping others to enjoy it as much as I do. It is such an honor to be a judge with TSGT. Good luck to all our wonderful contestants. You are all making a difference in this world.
Mike Severin - TSGT Judge
Mike Severin is a renaissance man and a raconteur. He’s one of the hidden gems of the Sault music scene with a lot of experience to share that he gained from traversing the province and country chasing the dream of music. You’ll know him from his show on The Borderline, Sev’s Cellar. His Rolodex is deep and he shares those connections on his weekly program. Like his old band Old Hat, he is a man of many hats as well – recording engineer, technician, multi-instrumentalist musician, Buddhist and champion of the Sault music scene.