by Daniella Ignacio ’17
Intermission has just ended and the next act is set to begin. Suddenly, host Isabel Parzecki announces that seniors Steven Collini, Veronica Grezcek and Michael Gonzalez decided to perform at the last minute. Collini reads an excerpt from Kanye West’s “Power,” and Grezcek and Gonzalez sing Elvis Presley’s “Can’t Help Falling In Love,” with Gonzalez on the ukulele. In the middle of the song, the audience turns on their phone flashlights and waves them in the air like it’s a concert. Everyone’s singing along, supporting their friends and appreciating this art; it’s a classic Showcase moment.
These were only two of the many talented acts at West Essex’s Fall Showcase on Nov. 16. At this celebration of creativity, some of the school’s best poets and musicians took to the cafeteria to exhibit their talents. Ms. Ruiz, Mr. Hermosilla and the National English Honor Society organized the event, with NEHS president and senior Isabel Parzecki hosting for the night.
“It’s a place where students are really able to showcase talents that they won’t be able to show in English class,” Ms. Ruiz said. “It’s nice to see all these other components of literature come out from my students.”
Throughout the night, a variety of acts entertained an audience of students, teachers and parents. Some students read poems that had great meaning to them, such as senior Catherine DiGangi, who recited “Desiderata” by Max Ehrmann, a poem her family loves. Others presented original works, including sophomore Teddy Press, who wrote and performed “Stone.”
“I love that Showcase is such a loving and caring environment,” Press said. “I feel like it’s an amazing opportunity for students to share their talents as well as hear others and become inspired through it.”
Meanwhile, senior Liam Fost took a break from his usual standup comedy act and sang instead. His animated rendition of Bo Burnham’s “Repeat Stuff,” accompanied by junior Paige Wasserman on the ukulele, brought the house down. Some other standout musical acts included freshman TJ Viola, who sang Dragonforce’s “Starfire,” and junior Maddie Feldman, who took the stage three times to play guitar and sing songs such as “Cigarette Daydreams” by Cage The Elephant.
However, even after two years of phenomenal Showcase endings, many would agree that the highlight of the night was the ending, when English teachers revealed hidden talents for writing and music. Ms. Perez read her short story, “A Stylish Soul,” while several tenth grade English teachers performed The Chainsmokers’ “Closer” introducing themselves as “The Kite Runners.” Mr. Hermosilla led the ragtag band with his vocals and guitar, with Mr. Collins on claves and kazoo and Mr. Myerson on the bongos, xylophone and kazoo. Ms. Maier and Ms. Ruiz joined in on the female lead together with egg shakers.
NEHS began hosting Showcases in 2015, when they wanted to create a fundraiser to increase appreciation for literature and support charities like Book Aid International. Inspired by Masquers’ “Coffeehouses” that lasted until 2014, they began with a Spring Showcase that revitalized the event for a new generation. Ever since, Showcases have become a staple for artistic West Essex students.
“You get a really big creative boost from Showcase,” said junior Emily Johnston. “After coming to each Showcase, it’s always easier for me to write a poem or create art. Even if I don’t perform, I still feel inspired.”
The next Showcase, a Spring Showcase, will take place in March. If you love and appreciate good art and poetry, the Showcase is the spot for you.
