91����

 

 

Although it can be difficult to find time for hobbies amid classes, studying, and socializing at 91����, Don Rags provides the perfect opportunity for students to practice and showcase their talents. Last Wednesday night, students on both campuses piled plates with snacks and took a seat to watch their peers perform at this fall’s Open Mic Nights. 

 

New England

 

 

This Open Mic Night featured a variety of music genres ranging from modern hits to opera , and even some original compositions such as “Salt and Vinegar” by Rachel Pei (’30). Students got a little peek of the past with Aaron Zellmer’s (’29) lute performance of “Galliard 5” by Giovanni Kapsberger, then swiftly found themselves pulled back into the more modern 20th century with Madeline (’28) and Pita (’30) O’Kray’s song and dance performance of “Sisters” from White Christmas. 

 

 

In addition to songs, this year featured a few comedic highlights, including “Big Tuna” from Levi Smail (’29) — which, oddly enough, had nothing to do with fish — and whale-centered comedy from Peter Mammi (’28). And, although the event’s program named many acts, right before the last listed performance, Dylan Peterson (’27) and a motley band of seniors stormed the stage and enthralled the crowd with a cover of “Sweet Home Alabama,” rousing all to applause and leaving everyone excited for next semester’s Open Mic Night surprises.

 

California

 

 

In California, before the event began, St. Joseph Commons bustled with conversation as students exchanged stories of their week off school, sipping on sodas and munching on chips and cookies.

The night began with an opening act by Nicolai Ross (’30) who performed a lively rendition of “Great Balls of Fire” by Jerry Lee Lewis. From then on, the night kicked into high gear, finishing off with an acoustic duet of Noah Kahan’s “Northern Attitude” performed by freshmen Marion Scott and Elijah Heal. The first act concluded with rounds of applause, and after a brief intermission, John Sariego (’28) opened Act 2 with a classic song by Jim Croce, “Operator.”

 

 

The second act had the audience clapping and laughing, featuring recitations of original poetry by Margaret Pinkerton (’28) and a stand-up routine by Roman Sarkis (’30). The final act brought the house down, when Shane Murphy (’29) sang “A Song for You” by Donny Hathaway, accompanied by David Johnston (’29) on piano. 

The night concluded with cheers of appreciation from the performers’ peers. “It’s really great to see people who have these awesome talents get up there!” Mimi Dragoo (’30) shared. Mary Ambuul (’30) echoed her words: “It’s so cool discovering this new side of different people. There are so many musical people at this school!” 

 

More photos from New England...

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... and California!

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