America’s Got Talent 2024: Sky Elements touching Semifinals tribute left the panel in tears
America’s Got Talent Season 19 arrived at the semifinals this week with 12 acts vying for one of the six spots moving onto the finale. Sky Elements, a group that features a drone light show, is one of the acts who impressed, giving the penultimate performance of the night. (Read our Recap)
In their video package, Preston, one of the members of the group, shared, “The moment we made it through, I knew exactly what we needed to do for our semi final performance, and that is to tell the story of Briley Rose, my daughter.” After losing his daughter in 2020, performing these drone shows has become his purpose. He saw his first drone the December after his daughter passed, shortly afterward, Preston left his law career to pursue Sky Elements. His best friend, also a member of the group, stated, “We have poured our whole souls into this performance. This is going to be the best show we have ever put on.” The performance location of Pasadena is fitting to tell the story of Briley Rose as it is “the city of roses,” he said.
The act is so big, AGT pre-records it outside in front of the theater
Sky Elements is an act that’s tough to compare to others as it is the only act this season that is pre-recorded and shot outside with the judges and audience watching on a screen inside. But still, it is evident how much work goes into the act. The performance features fellow AGT alum, Lily Meola’s song, “Butterfly.” It begins with a silhouette of a father and a daughter playing outside as the daughter flies off. A rose is featured as the performance continues. The father sees a butterfly. It all ends with a depiction of a larger butterfly. The camera work is truly beautiful as is the storytelling. It’s an emotional and effective tribute, and it’s impressive how these drones can make such beautiful objects.
“I wonder if it’s a sign that this show is airing on 9/11 when so many people have children and family members lost”
The judges, family members, and audience members were emotional after seeing the performance. Simon Cowell was speechless. Sofia Vergara said, “Who knew drones could make you so emotional,” calling it a “beautiful job.” Howie Mandel said, “I wonder if it’s a sign that this show is airing on 9/11 when so many people have children and family members lost.” He continued, “There isn’t an act that moves your heart so much, and you just broke us.” Heidi Klum called it “absolutely amazing,” adding, “I just want to give you a big hug right now.” Preston said, “I am just so grateful that my wife and I got to share the story of Briley tonight, and we really hope and wish that somebody who needs a little hope right now got some tonight.”
Sky Elements is an act that will likely advance as they are a fan favorite, but there were several other acts that also did a great job. Some acts that for sure deserve a spot in the finale with Sky Elements include, Brent Street, Learnmore Jonasi, and Solange Kardinaly. Brent Street, a dance crew from Australia continues to step it up, performing some of the best dance routines the show has ever seen. Learnmore Jonasi, a comedian, has flown a bit under the radar for me, but his routine tonight was both clever and funny. Solange Kardinaly, a quick change artist may have not had her best performance tonight, but her act is magical and deserves a spot in the finale.
