Unless U Got Talent

Unless U Got Talent 2026 was a new endeavor between old friends. We’ve worked with Unless U for years, creating over a dozen films together along the way.

This year, we we wanted to try something new. In addition to filming short pieces to kick off the event and introduce contestants throughout the night, we created a narrative film to uniquely spread the news about the transformative experience of Unless U to current and future students and parents!

This 60-second hype video set the energy, tone, and anticipation for the whole night! We mixed fun motion graphics with BTS footage to introduce the contestants and kick-off the biggest, baddest, talent show of the century.

We crafted eight contestant introductions to play before they hit the stage. Each one helps the audience get a special feel for personality of the contestant before they perform.

We partnered with Unless U and their students to create a film to tell the story of the transformative experience of attending Unless U, and how that experience can cast a vision of hope for parents with young kids wondering over an uncertain future. This film served as the anchor for the night and launching pad for the community.

We had a great time working with Unless U students, parents, and staff filming this project to create something special that will last.

What’s more fun than Unless U Got Talent? Watching the recap video highlighting special moments, contestants, and the funds raised comes close! It was a blast putting together a recap film as fun as Unless U is.

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Loss for Words, Samford University film still
Ryan Steel
Ryan stole the stage with his smooth Michael Jackson act. He actually ended up being the 2026 winner!
Loss for Words, Samford University film still
Jordan Decker
Jordan is the whole reason Unless U ever began in the first place, and his act did not disappoint!
Loss for Words, Samford University film still
Gerrin 2000
Gerrin is the life of the party. I am sure you will be able to tell from this short video, but he loves to have fun.
Loss for Words, Samford University film still
Ben Tudisco
Ben was the greatest showman in Unless U Got Talent 2026, literally and figuratively.
Loss for Words, Samford University film still
Colton Peek
"When you play do you want everyone to be cheering, or just relax and listen to your playing?". Colton responds, "Both"
Loss for Words, Samford University film still
Pete Peddy
Pete feels the most alive in two places. When he's dancing, and when he's at Unless U!
Loss for Words, Samford University film still
Darryl Stephens
"I love to sing like Usher. And well- kill it."
Loss for Words, Samford University film still
Jayden Bowen
If one of Jayden's songs come on, he is going to sing every. Single. Word.
Loss for Words, Samford University film still
Unless U Got Talent 2026 | Recap
This event was full of everything from laughs to tears. With over $140k raised, this night was definitely a success! Here is a short recap of this incredible evening!
Loss for Words, Samford University film still
Usher By - Music Video
We had a blast putting together this video full of Unless U students for Darryl's performance.
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Behind the scenes

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The Results

These films played a critical role in a successful $140k fundraising event.

At Cedar, we specialize in solving problems with story. We’ve helped dozens of organizations like Unless U increase awareness and gather resources for their mission.

If you or someone you know have a story needing communicating - let’s talk!

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