Now the stage is set for next week’s highly-anticipated finale.

The evening was defined not only by standout individual performances, but by an overwhelming sense of collaboration and support among contestants. In a show of camaraderie rarely seen in competition settings, several performers teamed up to elevate each other’s acts.

Jared Pierce accompanied Shelby Peterson on guitar, while Howard McAvoy played guitar for Emeleerose Mason, joined by members of the production team including Sebastian Hulett and Angelo Valentino on percussion.

One highlight of the night came when Gypsy The Disciple performed an original song backed by an all-star group featuring last year’s winner Dewyane Moor on cajón, CGT lighting designer Sara “The Greatest” on bass, and stage technician Rya Giuffre on saxophone.

From Left Dewayne Moore, Gypsy The Disciple, Sara the Greatest, and Rya Giuffre perform during the semi-finals at Chautauqua’s Got Talent at the Spire Theater, 317 E. Third St.

At the conclusion of the performance, Gypsy The Disciple surprised the audience by proposing to his girlfriend on stage — and she said yes.

Following an evening filled with strong performances and unforgettable moments, the finalists advancing to the Finale are April Hulett, Braelee Zuck, Daughters of Thunder

Gypsy The Disciple, Howard McAvoy, Jared Pierce, Justin Wheeler, Kam ‘n’ Zac, Liv Clement, Meghan Kelsey, Shelby Peterson, and Victoria Estelle Elia.

The Finale will take place Monday, May 4 at 7 p.m. at The Spire Theater, 317 E. Third St., and promises to be a true celebration of the season.

The evening will begin with the finalists competing one last time for the $1,000 grand prize. Following intermission, the event will transform into a showcase featuring special performances, including appearances by last year’s winner, group numbers and collaborations from current and past contestants, and a sneak preview from the cast of TURN, the original “Off Off Off Broadway” musical premiering at The Spire Theater May 29 through June 7.

“What stood out in the semifinals was how much these contestants showed up for each other. You don’t always see that in a competition. It made the night feel bigger than just the results — it felt like a real community on that stage,” said Producer Angelo Valentino.

At this point in the competition, Judge and Producer Ylsa Maj said the difference between contestants is often very small.

“What makes the difference now is how they connect, how they take risks, and how they make the audience feel something. That’s what we saw a lot of tonight,” Maj added.

The 16th season of Chautauqua’s Got Talent is presented by SE-93 and The Post-Journal.