Shubhlean Kaur '27
Oct 4, 2024
This past Saturday, Mercersburg Academy’s Fall Arts Showcase served as the year’s artistic kickoff during Family And Alumni Weekend. The night began with a preview of Stony Batter’s production of Puffs, an entertaining twist on the plot of Harry Potter from the perspective of the Hufflepuff house. The scene introduced many new student actors as well as veterans. Ary Small ‘27, the narrator of the show, said, “I enjoyed being able to perform for the parents because some might not be able to come to other performances.” The full production of Puffs will go up on October 25 and 26 at 7:30 p.m. in the Simon Theatre.
Following the thespians, Chorale showcased their voices and talent with two pieces. New director, Ben Demerath said, “It was a great experience, the kids did great. It’s really amazing to see how much they can do in just a few weeks.” The first piece was “Siyahamb,” a South African folk song, and the second song, “No Shortcuts” by Heather Maloney, involved the audience laying down the rhythm for the singers.
Members of Advanced Students Musical Theater then took the stage to perform an act from the musical Mamma Mia, involving acting, singing, and dancing. The audience received the number “Voulez-Vous” energetically.
Next came the dance pieces. Caroline Hobbs ‘26 and Elizabeth Orders ‘25 presented their duet, which they choreographed to “Your Needs, My Needs” by Noah Kahan. Members of the dance PGA danced to “Bette Davis Eyes” by BOY. The Fall Dance Concert will feature these pieces and the entire show on November 9 at 7:30 pm in the Simon Theatre.
To close off the night, the Jazz Band performed “The Battle Hymn of the Republic.” Soloists Zara Kimotho ‘28 and Ethan Stiffler ‘25, displayed their skills along with those of the entire band. Tristan Paulette ‘27 noted, “There was definitely energy from the audience and the players, which I think really brought out the best of the players, especially in their dynamics and how they worked together. I just thought it was really good.”
The galleries of the Burgin Center for the Arts featured works from a range of visual art mediums: painting, ceramics, photography, and drawing. Art teacher Kristen Pixler said, “It’s really early in this work, and I’m always so incredibly amazed at what they can pull off in less than a month.”
The entire Fall Arts Showcase was an important way for parents to see their children's artistic abilities on the stage and around the Burgin. With the Fall Arts Showcase completed, the performing arts groups are now preparing for their next performances. Paulette explained, “I’m really looking forward to performing on and off campus this year and I think it’s awesome what the arts groups have been able to make and do this year.”