Lettuce’s Adam Smirnoff and Robert Randolph Mentors Teen Prior To Garden Of Dreams Talent Show

Pictured: Robert Randolph and Adam Smirnoff rehearse with Paul Manning of Brooklyn, NY (17) in advance of his performance at the Garden of Dreams Talent Show at Radio City on April 11. (Photo by MSG Photos)

In advance of the upcoming Garden of Dreams Talent Show, Robert Randolph and Lettuce’s Adam Smirnoff mentored a teen participating in this year’s show. Paul Manning of Brooklyn, NY rehearsed his upcoming guitar performance with Robert and Adam and they surprised Paul with a new guitar. Paul met with Robert and Adam at a Manhattan rehearsal space and practiced his performances, receiving feedback and guidance from the artists. The annual Garden of Dreams Talent Show takes place at Radio City Music Hall on Monday, April 11 at 7 p.m. and is free and open to the public. Below, please find more information on Paul. 

The Garden of Dreams Talent Show is an annual event where children from various Garden of Dreams partner organizations are presented with the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to perform on the Great Stage at Radio City Music Hall. The Garden of Dreams Foundation is non-profit charity that works with The Madison Square Garden Company and MSG Networks Inc. to positively impact the lives of children facing obstacles such as homelessness, extreme poverty, illness and foster care.

Paul Deandre Manning (17); Brooklyn, NY

When he was a child, Paul made his first guitar out of paper and tape. In addition to receiving training from a teacher, Paul learned to play many of his favorite heavy metal and rock songs by ear. Paul said he imagines his role models whenever he plays including Jimi Hendrix and Dimebag Darrell. Music has helped Paul overcome depression and his hope is that his talent will allow him to buy his family a house.