By Nate Beer
As freshman Becca Nash took center stage and sang Idina Menzel’s “Let It Go,” the crowd’s enthusiastic cheers were almost deafening.
A yearly event, the Talent Show showcases some of the hidden artistic talent Richardson students have to offer, and acts as a fundraising activity to benefit the senior class for prom and senior dedication.
While some students prepared by searching for the right song, and rehearsing their dances every day, others relied on improvisation.
“We just messed around,” senior AJ Marin said. “Whenever we dance, we don’t choreograph. We just mess around and we play around with it and if we like it we just try to remember that.”
For some students, the show allowed them to explore their talents and receive immediate feedback from a large audience.
“I’ve been singing since I could put out a tune,” senior Jessica Jenkin said. “I was never sure if I was good, and kept it to myself up to eighth grade. I decided to try out for the talent show, but didn’t go through with it. My junior year I finally broke out of my shell, and I guess it all worked out.”
During the two-hour show, the talent acts included performances of Beatles songs, Ed Sheeran modern pop songs, country-western dancing by the Desperados, K-pop music, and a 10 minute drum session by the Drummer Boyz of Jacob Beller, Ayub Jamshaid and Juan Galdamez. Students took different approaches to practicing for the show.
“I sang my song over and over in the shower and
even getting dressed in the mornings,” freshman Makaila Mitchell said.
A judging panel of teachers George Hademenos, Alisa Salvans, Caitlin Kilbane, Clayton Claridy and Chris Abbs selected the winners. Red Hot Curry Peppers placed third for performing Reel Big Fish’s “Take On Me,” and the multi-talented Xpress placed second for performing an original composition. Senior Xavier Burns placed first with her rendition of Davin DeGraw’s “Not Over You.”
“When they called my name for first place, I was shocked because I didn’t think I would get first place,” senior Xavier Burns said. “I was just happy that I was given the opportunity to share my passion with the audience and share the stage with amazing talent.”
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