By Gabby Carlson | Echo
What do The Lion King, the Wizard of Oz, Pandora's Box and the Boy Scouts have in common? They will all be on campus March 10, for one night only! Now you may ask, "Where do I find all of these amazing things?" The answer is at Rediger Chapel at 6:30 and 9 p.m. for the "Greatest Airband."
Airband has been around for about three decades. It began simply with lip-syncing and a fake band being the main focus. But, it has evolved into a night of elaborate choreography, lip-syncing, masterful song mashups and tedious set-building which dominates the stage. The amount of preparation that goes into the performance makes Airband a long-awaited event for more than just those who participate.
The extensive practices mornings and nights were rewarding to some. Rachel Phillips, a freshman on Second East Olson, said "I loved practice because we got to be a little family every night, so honestly I'll be sad when Airband's over because we won't be together."
Masters of Ceremonies (MCs) junior Noah Nemni and senior Elyse Horb have big plans for this year's show. The theme is the "Greatest Airband," a carnival showcase for all ages. The duo is planning a show comparable to the wacky antics they displayed at Nostalgia Night last spring.
First West Wengatz and First East Olson will battle it out, with acts back to back at the end of the night. The two wings have been the most recent winners, and their 2017 performances are perhaps the most anticipated reveals for avid airband attendees.
After First West Wengatz held a four-year victory reign, First East Olson stole the show in their 2016 Mario-themed performance featuring Jeff Cramer, Associate Professor of Computer Science & Engineering, as Bowser.
With tickets in hand, eager attendants will rush Rediger Chapel Friday night for the 6:30 and 9 p.m. shows. Students in acts lasting 4-5 minutes apiece will put their dancing feet forward after months of long nights and tedious preparation. Parents, students, faculty and community members alike will come together to experience the night together, cheering on every piece of a continuously changing tradition.
