Manfest was a catchy, exciting look at the talents of male choir students across four counties.
“It was a lot of fun,” said high school student Chris Ridgley. “We all had a great time.”
The performance took place at 7 p.m. Jan. 14, but the event lasted from 9 a.m. until the performance’s culmination with a cappella group Groove For Thought at 8:30 p.m.
The only female involved in the performance was a member of Groove For Thought.
Manfest shined with entrancing light. It was made obvious in the face of each student that he wanted nothing more than to be there, in that moment. While some were self-conscious, it melted away before the end of their opening number.
“Let All Men Sing” was flawlessly arranged and a perfect piece to include in the performance, which wholly engrossed a packed Corbet Theater and gave students real-life applications for the success they can attain in their chosen “sport.”
“It was definitely a very educational experience,” said Ridgley. “The directors were full of tips and hints – we learned untold amounts.”
Students conducted themselves professionally and took the performance seriously. They received a standing ovation for their efforts.
“The directors expressed difficulty in getting the men in their choirs to sing,” said Dr. Donna Huffman, who was the major role in coordinating the event.
Luckily for the directors, their students should now realize what they are capable of.
“I really appreciated the chance to sing with other young men who enjoy singing the type of music I like to sing; everybody improved,” said Ridgley.
Four Montesano students were so committed to participating in Manfest that they traveled an hour and a half to get here and will do the same returning home tonight.
“It couldn’t have been better,” said Huffman “Groove For Thought was just the icing on the cake.”
The performance was also beneficial for Centralia students who plan to enter the musical arts. “Students who’ll be music teachers here learned what they can do,” said Huffman.
Groove For Thought performed both well-known and original pieces, including “Lean On Me” which featured student participation, “Shining Star” and “Lemons.” They were also granted a standing ovation, though it was not as large as the students’ ovation. They sang one encore.
“This should definitely be repeated,” said Ridgley, whose opinion was echoed by Huffman and the guest directors.
“We would like to see an annual performance,” said Huffman. Plans are being discussed.
Manfest student performers receive standing ovation
Published: Friday, January 15, 2010
Updated: Friday, January 15, 2010 00:01
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