Eastern’s spring performances

As the end of the Spring 2025 semester draws near, students across campus are coming out of  hibernation. Being buried in essays, busy work, and endless readings have consumed the time and energy of students for several months now, leaving them longing for fresh air and something bright and new. Fortunately, Eastern’s performing artists have spent these past months in preparation for their kickoff to warm weather and springtime celebrations!

Eastern University’s spring performances are rolling in with passion. Dancers, musicians and vocalists alike have been working overtime behind the scenes in preparation for their times to shine during their performances this April.

The spring 2025 performing arts spring events kicked off on Friday, April 11, with the opening night of the Spring Centennial Music Festival featuring Eastern’s instrumental ensemble. This festival resumed on Saturday, April 12, with performances by Eastern’s vocal choirs, including Turning Point and Angels of Harmony, a gospel choir. 

When asked about the rehearsal process, instrumentalist Joe Walsh said “The rehearsal and preparation process for the festival has been extensive. We have held rehearsals every week this semester as well as a more intensive schedule the week before the festival to get used to performing in the auditorium. The process is incredibly rewarding when we get to make music for family and friends.”

Abigail McNair, the vice president of Turning Point choir, shared feelings regarding the rehearsal process leading up to the festival. “The music department and the ensembles never fail to amaze me. Even when we feel like our songs may be falling apart, or if we miss a few rehearsals and don’t think we’re going to come together in time, we always figure out a way to give a performance we’re proud of every time,” says McNair. 

Angelina Morrow, member of Angels of Harmony, had a message for the audience for both this concert and many more to come: “One thing the audience should know before watching is that it’s ok to be engaging and we honestly encourage it. If you feel led to stand, stand on your feet! We love to dance, laugh, and have fun on stage, so y’all should too!”

The Spring Centennial Music Festival was a breath of fresh air after a long, cold winter. The combination of new, flashy music and calm, well-known songs of worship raised the rafters of the McInnis stage. With singers and musicians wailing out in His name, it was clear that the Spirit was alive and well during both performance nights!

Eastern’s dancers will also have their moment in the spotlight during the dance department’s Spring performance, “Reclamation,” taking place April 25 and 26 at 7:30 PM. “Reclamation” is this year’s variation of the department’s annual headline show. 

Eastern’s dancers have plenty of input regarding “Reclamation,” expressing their excitement for their opening night and sharing their feelings about the rehearsal process working up to this point. One dancer, Lily Bertolet, shared her experience as a senior performing in her final show with Eastern’s dance department. “Rehearsals have been so fun! It’s such a blessing to have a space where I can do what I love with my best friends. It is a challenge as I dance around 10 hours a week and many dancers practice even more, but in the end, it is so worth it! Additionally, as a senior, it makes practicing much more bittersweet because I am so thankful for the ability and opportunity to dance but feeling very sentimental about it as well,” says Bertolet. 

When asked if they had any notes for the audience, Eastern’s dancers widely expressed the hope that everyone watching will enjoy and appreciate the hard work put into bringing the show to life on the stage. Bertolet added, “I just hope that the audience will enjoy themselves and recognize the time, effort, and athleticism it takes to be a dancer. Dancing is an art form but dancers are athletes, blending strength, power, and grace into each movement. Most of all though, I hope the audience feels a connection and enjoys the show!”

The stage has been and will continue to be lively as singers, dancers and musicians light it up with their talents with their displays of hard work and dedication. Thank you to the performers for keeping the art of entertainment alive!