By Sophia Gage, CIU Student Writer
Can you say Acoustarockarappapaloozastockfest 10 times fast? The Student Recreational Team opened Columbia International University’s annual talent show, colloquially known as Acousta, by working together to pronounce the full name of the event. Lydia Malec, co-host and performer, said the name flawlessly after other co-hosts failed, kickstarting the event.
Silver streamers, elegant fairy lights, feathers, and a city skyline backdrop on stage contributed to the sophisticated feel of Acousta as students gathered to partake in delicious snacks before the event began. Suits and sparkling dresses replaced the typical student garb, foreshadowing the wonderful performances to come from CIU’s very own student body.
From a quartet singing sweet songs to pull on your heartstrings, to Virginia Short’s stand-up comedy about the hardships of childhood and the curiosities of life at CIU, the audience roared with appreciation at the end of every performance.
Braxton Claypool made an appearance as a mime, and Lydia Crummie sang a beautiful rendition of “Lead Me to the Cross.” Marithe Imbolo-Yolinga and Reggie Linscott performed a heart-wrenching melody that brought the audience to a standing ovation, and graduate student Jack Horchler performed stand-up comedy for the sixth year in a row! Meanwhile, Claire and Lila Sims sang a gorgeous duet cover of “Dreams” by the Cranberries, and Ben Briley played bass, mandolin and harmonica simultaneously.
To end the evening, Seth Mckay played two original songs for the student body before he and Collin Otte performed a cover of “River” by Leon Bridges, followed by a final standing ovation.
As students mingled after the event ended, Nathaniel Brown, a junior, said his highlight was the unbelievable talent of Ben Briley. Alissa Hughes called the event “quite enjoyable” surpassing the expectations of many of the students.
It appears that Acoustarockarappapaloozastockfest, despite its complicated name, has revealed hidden talents within CIU’s student body and given them a time to shine!
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