By: Mary Grace Bitting and Tessa Wilck
On March 26, faculty and staff took center stage in a talent show at the Gregory Center, hosted by the Student Government Association and featuring music, dance and interactive comedy.
Before the show began, students were welcomed with Chick-fil-A nuggets, snacks and drinks. After everyone found a seat, the lights dimmed and the first act, Henry Volk, an admissions recruiter, performed an electric guitar solo that ultimately earned first place.
“It started off with a bang,” said audience member Thomas Costner. “Henry [Volk] came out shredding the guitar. Absolutely dominated the stage.”
Keith Edwards followed with a partner dance, performing a relaxed, jazz-influenced routine rooted in ballroom technique. Edwards, a plumber, also has 20 years of experience, although it was his first time performing on stage.
Kirsten Mudrack, a professor of chemistry, delivered a vocal performance of “Defying Gravity,” showcasing her range and stage presence in one of the evening’s more traditional acts.
Brian Eisenback, a professor of biology, hosted an interactive talk-show-style segment that quickly turned into a crowdwide activity. After inviting a student volunteer onstage and dressing him as a train conductor, Eisenback handed him a whistle and began a playful “train” scenario. Eisenback and the student performed while the audience members formed a train, or conga line. The segment, though not a traditional display of talent, drew laughter and emphasized audience participation.
The last participant, Juan Villalba, director of campus activities, brought a lighter moment to the show with a performance alongside his poodle, Oliver. The act included basic tricks such as sitting, waiting and jumping over obstacles. While not flawless, the performance was well received, with the audience responding positively to the dog’s charm. Oliver won the best animal award.
“I didn’t expect too much and was just there to support my professor, but I was positively surprised at how well everyone performed,” said Emir Basar, a senior soccer player in attendance.
Photo: Juan Villalba with his dog Oliver