North students showcased their expertise in the North Student Talent Show, which took place at 7:00 p.m. May 16 in the Little Theatre. The Academic Support Program sponsored the show, and they collected all proceeds.

The show started with an introduction from special education teacher Brian Rooney thanking the audience and the talent show team, which included Rooney and special education teachers Beth O’Brien, Amy McMahon, Jane Kenslea, and Ben Hoadley.

Freshman Alex Katz, who was the Master of Ceremonies, narrated the show and introduced the acts.

“I love making the audience feel things and becoming a whole new character,” said Katz.

The first half was filled with singing, dancing, instruments, and a poetry reading. A highlight from the first act was junior Eliza Huntington’s reading of her poem, “Immortal.” The poem was emotional yet dark and kept the audience on the edge of their seats.

Later, freshman Natalie Taw performed an energetic dance to a remix of hip hop and K-pop songs. Her dance was captivating as she followed every beat and note with precision.

“It’s a good opportunity for students to perform and improve their self esteem and confidence,” said Taw. “I meet many people who have an incredible talent, but they face their stage anxiety and think too much about other people’s opinions on them.”

During the intermission, freshman Angelina Kekhia played a song called “Fox Trail” on the harp. The audience members were free to go and buy snacks donated by the program and to join a 50-50 raffle.

After the intermission, sophomore Hailey McDonald gave a breathtaking rendition of “Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow?” by The Shirelles. Her powerhouse voice reverberated throughout the otherwise silent theatre.

“There is so much I love about performing. It is my happy place. It is my element,” said McDonald. “Nothing fills me with more joy than being on stage in front of a room full of people and singing my heart out.”

The show ended on a high note when junior Ethan Kuo danced to “Old Town Road” by Lil Nas X. There was thunderous applause from the audience after he performed complicated tricks and moves on stage. At the end, all the participants came on stage for a photo as the audience applauded once more.

Overall, the talent show was a great hit with audience and cast members alike. McDonald said, “I feel like life’s a stage and it’s up to you to give the world a show. Take every chance you can get. Try your hardest or don’t try at all.”