Avalon Penrose, a 28-year-old aspiring singer, introduced herself to the America’s Got Talent (AGT) judges with a surprisingly candid story: she was a childhood opera singer who quit at age 14 due to debilitating panic attacks. Now, after a 14-year hiatus, she decided to return to the stage not just to find her voice but to inspire others suffering from stage fright, proving that it is possible to overcome your fears. To manage her performance anxiety, Avalon developed a unique and completely unorthodox coping mechanism: she only feels comfortable singing if she is simultaneously making fun of the dramatic nature of opera. This unusual approach set the stage for an audition unlike any the judges had ever witnessed.
Avalon began her first song, “Time to Say Goodbye,” with a powerful, trained voice. However, she deliberately mixed the beautiful operatic notes with bizarre, distracting antics, dramatically throwing small, stuffed toy chickens from her handbag across the stage while singing. The judges, particularly Howie Mandel, were left bewildered, trying to figure out what exactly was happening. After the first piece, the panel was divided: some appreciated the comedic value of the performance, while others believed her incredible voice was being overshadowed. Simon Cowell, captivated by the spectacle, decided to challenge her, demanding a second song—but only if she continued the strange act.
For her second song, “Habanera” from Carmen, the absurdity escalated when Simon himself agreed to participate. He stood up and began throwing the stuffed chickens at Avalon while she sang, turning the serious opera performance into pure comedic chaos. Despite the distractions, her vocal talent remained undeniable. The judges, thoroughly entertained by the sheer spectacle, ultimately recognized the unique brilliance of her combination of talent and self-deprecating humour. Avalon’s bold, unforgettable audition, which saw the judges lose all control, earned her four unanimous “yeses,” sending her through to the next round.
