The line-up for the Alter Ego finals, Friday 5 February, has just been announced, with nine acts competing for the top slot. Ghetts, Paigey Cakey and Rude Kid are all confirmed as featured artists.

This year’s acts were chosen after tough live auditions.  The Judges – Hackney Empire’s Director Susie McKenna; Musical Director, Renell Shaw; show host Kat B; and Producer, Yamin Choudury – chose the line-up from over 50 up-and-coming young acts.

Yamin said it was a touch choice deciding who should go through: “Auditions for Alter Ego were probably the best I’ve ever seen … We have got nine incredible finalists, the audience are in for an amazing night!”

Alter Ego 2016 finalists

• Aysia Edwards, 17, Singer
• Rio-Cavelle Phillips, 16, Dancer
• Jessica Fernandes, 16, Singer
• Urban Vinyls, Vocal Group
• Josh Tenor, 15, Singer and guitarist
• City Academy Choir
• Katie Wilson, 15, Singer
• Princess Olowogboye, 17, Singer
• Steppaz, Dance Crew

Tickets cost £4 in advance (plus £1 per ticket online and £1.25 over the phone), or £5 on the door. Check the Hackney Empire site for details.

Alter Ego is part of Hackney Council’s youth arts and culture festival Discover Young Hackney (#DYH16).  For a full programme, see the What’s On.