Dazzling Displays at DePauw Creative Convocation
As the auditorium lights faded to black, anticipation hummed in the air, halted only for a moment as the audience's gaze was directed towards the dramatic opening of the rear doors. A wind quartet's cry cut through the stillness, heralding the start of the magnificent DePauw Creative Convocation with a burst of golden light. The entrance was nothing short of spectacular, with the Pork and Beans Band marching to a lively jazz melody that instantly electrified the spectators. This was the grand beginning of an evening dedicated to the rich tapestry of creative talent found at DePauw University.
An Ensemble of Musicians
The event was a celebration of Black History Month, showcasing a vibrant array of students-ranging from musicians to poets and filmmakers. It wasn't just a night to enjoy entertainment but also to acknowledge the wonderful variety of artistry on campus. The Kresge Auditorium's stage became a revolving platform for gifted musicians, each one leaving a lasting impression with their performances. Particularly memorable were Natalie Cassidy and Sarah Cecil, who, paired with Kazuki Aoyama's exceptional beatboxing skills, delivered a mesmerizing blend of 'Wildest Dreams' and 'Counting Stars'.
Cinema on Campus
The convocation didn't just spotlight live performances- it also served as a stage for filmmakers to project their voices through the art of cinema. Students expressed their stories and ideas on the big screen in the auditorium, captivating the audience with their creations, which ranged from the visually stunning to the humorously engaging.
Poetry with Purpose
Words took on a life of their own as they were spoken aloud by the talented poets of DePauw. These artists didn't shy away from tackling serious issues through their works. Among them, Miciaih Furbert's 'Guilty Until Proven Innocent' stood out as a powerful commentary on racial injustice and police brutality, demonstrating the profound impact of poetry.
Interactive Performances and Engaging Speeches
The convocation was interspersed with interactive elements, like Faith Harrington's engaging speech that highlighted the beauty and breadth of hairstyles in the face of industry prejudice. As models walked showcasing diverse hairdos, the audience was reminded of the deep-seated biases in our culture that still need to be challenged. The night concluded with an impromptu music and poetry session led by the performative poet Binky, who brought together beats, words, and even audience members in a spontaneous celebration of creativity.
The Grand Finale
The energy of the night didn't wane as it drew to a close. Instead, it transformed into a dance celebration, with everyone, performers and spectators alike, invited to share in the joyous occasion. No doubt, the Creative Convocation served not only as a display of the artistic flair present at DePauw but also a testament to the vibrant community united in appreciation of the arts.
artistry, convocation, performance