WHAT seemed like an impromptu performance threatened to mar a great evening of performances at this year's staging of the variety show Mello Go Roun' at the Jubilee Village on Thursday.

Things went awry when it was announced there would be a musical tribute to visiting Nigerian president Dr Goodluck Jonathan, whose favourite Jamaican artiste is Bob Marley.

The tribute would take the form of a medley of Marley's tunes by pianist Everton Williams. It was clear that this was not rehearsed as the pianist, who would later redeem himself with a stunning Jazz folk performance, seemed unsure as he went through the popular tracks. The tribute would draw the public's ire when soprano Paula Brown Powell joined in. She had previously thrilled with the patriotic track I Saw My Land in the Morning, but did not make the grade with the Marley tunes.

However, this would be the single disappointing performance on the night's programme.

The event which showcases some of the best pieces in speech, dance and music from the annual festival of the arts, lived up to is billing of highlighting Jamaica's rich pot pourri of culture.

Traditional folk forms were on show and credit must be given to the island's teachers who have worked with students of the years to preserve these indigenous artistic expressions.

Standout performances in the folk forms came from Spot Valley High School with their Revival piece; Orangefield Primary's intricate maypole formation earned the audience's applause; as did the dinkimini performance by Manchoneil All-Age School from Portland.

But, it was the performance by 13-year-old Alex Anderson from Ardenne High in St Andrew which had the audience going.

His rendition of the Jackson 5 hit Who's Loving You, solidified his status as the most outstanding male vocalist for 2012 in the festival competition.

Another singer, Sharon Martini, had her audience shaken and stirred as she delivered the jazz standard, Whatever Lola Wants, complete with elbow-length gloves and feather boa.

In the speech department, the performances of note came from Harrison Preparatory with Church Met; Deshannel Finder's Voice Inna De Box and Craig Barrett's ode to white rum -- Mi and Mi Fren Cue.