THE GLEE PROJECT Eliminates Another Contender; Jane Lynch Will Mentor Next Week

Oxygen’s THE GLEE PROJECT tested the remaining ten contenders on their “Adaptability” skills during this week’s challenging new episode. After being introduced to guest mentor Kevin McHale (GLEE's Artie Abrams), the contenders were given their first twist of the week – to perform their rehearsed homework assignment song, Alanis Morissette’s “You Oughta Know,” as solo numbers instead of a large group number. Then, the hopefuls were dismissed from the classroom without being told the group number. Once in the recording studio with on-air mentor Nikki Anders, the song of the week, “Price Tag” by Jessie J was revealed. With no time to practice, the contenders learned the vocals on demand and the choreography on-set. While some of the singers thrived in the fast-paced learning environment, others failed to live up to the expectations. After reviewing the week as a whole, the mentors singled out Nellie, Blake, Mario, Charlie, Ali and Abraham as the weakest performers for the “Adaptability” theme.

Throwing the bottom six one last challenge, the judges paired up the contenders to perform duets for Ryan Murphy. Blake and Nellie were paired together for Foreigner’s soft ballad “I’ve Been Waiting For a Girl Like You” meanwhile Ali and Abraham were given the upbeat “Last Friday Night” by Katy Perry. The last duet, “Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me” by Elton John and George Michael, was given to Mario and Charlie, but left them both standing in the bottom three, alongside Abraham. However, in the end, Ryan Murphy chose Mario to send home.

Mario Bonds (24) of Lanham, Maryland has been performing for more than half of his life. Born with Morning Glory Syndrome, which ultimately caused him to go blind by the age of nine, Mario faced adversity with great optimism. His talents exceed just his singing capabilities and include dancing, acting and playing various instruments such as the piano, guitar and drums. Beyond those skills, Mario enjoys motivational speaking, comedy, impersonations and working as a voice-over artist. Mario originally auditioned for “The Glee Project” online and at the New York City open casting call.

As the numbers get smaller the competition gets harder. Next week, Tuesday, July 10th, the remaining nine contenders come face-to-face with GLEE's very-own Jane Lynch (Sue Sylvester)to face their ultimate fears and uncertainties. The contenders will perform the 90’s rap-classic “Now That We Found Love” by Heavy D & The Boyz for “Fearlessness” week.