By: Alyssa Pittman, Mason Asher, and Alivia Rhodes
Lights, camera, wow! Showcase is a sacred tradition for the GSP community, where performers get a chance to demonstrate their unique talents. From singing to comedy acts the second week’s showcase had it all. With a shortened total of 5 acts, these scholars proved their incredible prowess on the Johnson Theater stage. The real stars of the show, once again, were the outstanding tech crew that made the experience possible and seamless for both performers and audience members. Now let the show commence!
Starting off strong Charlotte Lucas on piano and Aubree Abbot on vocals wowed the crowd with their amazing rendition of Work Song by Hozier. The crowd erupted in applause, vigorously uplifting the two young women on their amazing performance.
For three whole acts, Ella Sears wowed the audience with her breathtaking trumpet skills. In her first act, she powered through a solo rendition of Penny Lane by the Beatles. Then she took control of the stage yet again for Act II. Sears beautifully coasted through another trumpet solo, Yesterday by the Beatles. For a third and final act she commanded the audience to sing along for a beautiful and unifying performance of Hey Jude by the Beatles.
Houston Oliver covered Don Mclean’s American Pie, a classic American tune perfect for Independence Day. The crowd joined in, supporting the young singer’s ambitious endeavour. Even the walls of Johnson Theatre hum with patriotic pride. The act also shows the beauty of a choir of voices, an example of exactly why showcase is so important to this community.
All scholars left the Johnson Theatre knowing how to catch none other than the mysterious Pink Elephant. Amateur Comedian Zack Dillion had the audience compelled and engulfed into his make-believe world of blue and pink elephants and how they are both caught. Waves of hysterical laughter erupted with each punchline. When his act finished, applause roared for the seemingly uncatchable pink elephant.
Landon Hinz’s cover of Feeling Good by Nina Simone was a bone-chilling finale to this week’s showcase. Silence overcame the audience as awe engulfed the scholars. No singing along for this crowd. Landon amazed with his killer vocals in the style of Michael Bublé, an exemplary finale to end the talent-packed second Showcase of the Murray State GSP experience.
With only two showcases left, scholars await more talented performers. For talented performers, sensational acts, and tech enthusiasts, come join Megan, Annie, and Brenna for Showcase Protected Time, Tuesdays from 3:00-5:00 and Thursdays from 3:15-6:00!
Tech Crew: Colton Clark, Jesse Cleaves, Ava Hegge, Cassandra Lyons, Drew Rich, Riley Stinson, and Memphis Thamlman