Popcert 40 was on April 10th and it was amazing. From the beautiful vocals and loud music to pun jokes, it was a really fun experience with many talented contestants.
I went to the Popcert with my mom and she definitely did not expect how loud it was going to be. One outstanding performance, in my opinion, was Gloria Gaynor’s “I Will Survive” by Jeanille Ettinoffe. After every performance, the MC would compliment the students with puns.
I also interviewed some performers and one audience member about the experience.
Belle Spencer, “Over My Head” by James Marriot:
- Why did you choose that song?
It didn’t have curse words.
- What was it like to be on stage?
It was stressful.
- What was it like watching the other performances?
It was even more stressful.
- What was the most memorable part of Popcert 40?
Hugging my friends after the show.
Danny Fencik, “I’m Still Standing” by Elton John, “Lay All Your Love On Me” by ABBA with Elizabeth Dunlop, The Barden Bellas’ Finals medley from the movie series “Pitch Perfect”:
- Why did you choose those songs?
The song [“I’m Still Standing” by Elton John] fit my vocal part very well and it was a challenge that was outside my comfort zone. It’s [“Lay All Your Love On Me” by ABBA] kind of musical theater and we got to act. It [The Finals medley] was a group of almost 20 kids and it was fun to work with them, the choreography was fun.
- What was it like to be on stage?
I’ve been on stage my entire life (musical, choir, band), it was just fun to be on stage again.
- What was it like watching the other performances?
It was breathtaking to see the talent that is in RHS.
- What was the most memorable part of Popcert 40?
Singing Sweet Caroline at the end with the audience.
Jeannille Ettinoffe, “I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor, The Barden Bellas’ Finals medley from the movie series “Pitch Perfect”, “Take A Hint” from “Victorious” with Elizabeth Dunlop, Guitar in “The Way Things Go” by Beabadoobee with Vivienne Virostko:
- Why did you choose those songs?
I picked it [“I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor] because nobody was really doing an older song. I just wanted to do something [The Finals medley] with a huge group because I don’t really do stuff with big groups. We just wanted to do a song [“Take A Hint”] together and move around the stage. She [Vivienne Virostko] wanted an acoustic player for the song and also wanted someone there to help her feel comfortable.
- What was it like to be on stage?
I’m usually nervous beforehand but once I get on the stage, it goes away.
- What was it like watching the other performances?
It was really fun, seeing everybody put on such a great show, considering how hard they worked.
- What was the most memorable part of Popcert 40?
The chaos in trying to do the medley but it was still fun and I enjoyed it.
Noel Rodriguez, an audience member
- What was it like watching the performances?
It was definitely one of a kind, expectations were met.
- What was the most memorable part of Popcert 40?
Watching some of my friends perform as well as the ending performances.
- What was your favorite performance?
My favorite was “Over My Head” by Belle Spencer.
- How would you describe Popcert 40?
“Very cool”
Overall, Popcert 40 was a great time and shall forever be treasured. It truly showcased the many skills of the students at RHS. We already can’t wait for next year!
