Aaron Berkowitz – General Assignment Reporter
The floor shook, grandmas danced, and a violinist stole the show. That is just a glimpse of why students and staff packed the Student Center Ballroom for A Night of Expression Part II, which was sponsored by the Multicultural Center.
Jeremy Grier, junior and organizer of both Night of Expression events, said his approach to putting on a successful part two of Night of Expressions was different than his first time around.
“For the first one we featured many forms of art. We had some videography, photography, paintings, poetry, and musicians/live bands,” said Grier. “We really tried to create a concert atmosphere with this one because I learned that people responded best to music.”
The show’s lineup consisted of a house band called The Odd Bodies, performances by a rap group out of Hartford called The Voyagers, Siul Hughes, Tea Montgomery and more. There was also a raffle that gave those who entered the opportunity to win a gift card to Urban Outfitters downtown or one of two paintings by painter, Neal Fudge IV.
Ashley Raymond, sophomore athletic training major, said she thought it was a very positive event.
“It’s always great to see all of the different kinds of people come together,” said Raymond. “When they did this event last year the turnout was a little smaller, but it was new so I had a feeling this year would be way better. The school needs more events like this because it encourages people to be themselves and show what makes you go, what’s your passion and what you put your heart into.”
Owen Bigler, a sophomore communications major, said he also noticed the sense of community that the event helped build among the people who attended.
“This means a lot to me,” said Bigler. “Because everyone has their own sets of skills and talents. So to have them all together here at once gives people who maybe normally wouldn’t get to see them a chance. Let there be no boundaries. We had rockers and rappers here tonight and it just goes to show that when everyone comes together to show what they can do they can create magic and great music.”
Chris “Mr. Mizzy” Haith, a communications major and co-host of Mouthn’ Off Radio at WSIN, said the show provided those involved with putting on the show an opportunity to see what goes on behind the scenes at a show like this and he was a fan of the acts that performed.
“I loved it, it kind of feels like one of BET’s shows,” said Haith. “Matt the Violinist definitely killed it. I had already seen some of his work so I was excited. I couldn’t wait to see him perform.”
Both Tea Montgomery and Neal Fudge IV thanked Grier for the chance to be a part of the show and is already thinking about a possible part three to the event with its growing reputation.
“The honor is all mine for being invited it wouldn’t be right to turn down this opportunity,” said Montgomery. “The event was dope, I had to be here. Its great that events like this can happen and everyone that comes out is able to something different from the experience.”
Grier said there is always room for improvement, but he is proud of all the work and promotion that went into the show.
“CR3CS3RV has always represented unity, individuality, and harmony so with that being said we are always being true to ourselves,” said Grier. “Everyone worked hard and I really think that showed here tonight.”
Photo Credit: Aaron Berkowitz
