J.L. Crowe Secondary students are kicking off the sixth annual Variety Show on Thursday with a video montage that is sure to poke fun at the evening’s emcees.
Although actual content is being kept under wraps until opening night, Eric Gonzales, a Grade 11 student in charge of video production, did hint at what to expect.
We are shooting scenes around school and Trail; funny vignettes of both teachers and students, he said.
The show starts at 7 p.m. and beyond comedy, will feature singers, dancers, actors, pianists and guitarists from grades 8-12.
“We aren’t sticking to a theme this year,” said Jesse Bartsoff, student organizer for the event.
“We want to showcase all forms talent that our school has to offer, and bring it to the community.”
Of the 25 acts performing that evening, the students are looking forward to a much- anticipated visit from Matt Foley, the motivational speaker.
For Saturday Night Live buffs, a resurrection of this 1990’s abrasive and clumsy character played by the late Chris Farley, is sure to provide a chuckle or two.
Pianist Austin Rafuse, a fixture in the show for the last three years, will be tickling the ivories for his final curtain call before he graduates this spring, said Terry Jones, teacher sponsor for the event.
Without giving too much away, Jones said that the audience would get a first time look at a young boy with vocal talent.
“I don’t want to put pressure on the lad, but he has quite the voice,” commented Jones.
Rumours are swirling about the high jinks principal David DeRosa has up his sleeve this year.
“The act remains behind the curtain,” said Bartsoff.
“We get to see it for the first time along with the rest of the audience.”
At the end of the night, a retired Crowe teacher will be recognized for being an inspiration to the community and given the Golden Apple Award.
The display of talent is a “fun-raiser” for the school, with proceeds going to scholarships for leadership students.
Tickets are $12 each and can be picked up at the Charles Bailey Theatre box office.
This is the first year for three grade eleven organizers to be responsible for producing and organizing the show.
Barstoff, Gonzalez and Mitch McLean, student audio and stage manager, all agree they are feeling opening night jitters.
“As soon as the show starts, I can release all my tension,” said McLean.
“I am going to finally relax and enjoy all the acts along with the audience.”