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October 26, 2022
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At the midpoint of each semester at Thomas Aquinas College, as students take a break from classes for their Don Rags evaluations, comes an occasion for entertainment, celebration, and sharing talents: Open-Mic Night. Last week students on both campuses took advantage of this semi-annual opportunity to demonstrate their musical prowess and appreciation for the performing arts.

California

Beneath the stars on St. Gladys Patio, students filled every seat with anticipation. Anna van Wijk (’24) and Clare Mangin (’23) emceed the event, encouraging and thanking every performer. The night rose and fell with laughter, applause, and the sound of music. “It’s remarkable to see the hidden talent,” said Peter Bockrath (’24).

Acts ranged from solo pieces, duets, ensembles, and even audience participation! In the latter part of the night, they took a more gentle, sensitive tone, with songs of faith, love, and challenge. Brigit McNeil (’23) and Abby Lovold (’23) offered a heartfelt tribute piece, “Heaven Needed You More,” in memory of departed students Maggie Yanoschik (’23) and Sam Morson (’24). The audience fell into contemplative silence as the two performed, moved deeply by the tribute. “That was beautiful,” remarked Anna van Wijk (’24).

From there, the night began to reach its conclusion. Ensemble performances highlighted a strong community as students put together their talents to fill the space with powerful, joyous song.

Photos - California
  • Four perform a piece, with three singing and one on the guitar
  • Two perform a duet on guitar and mandolin
  • Two perform on guitar and violin
  • A trio performs, two singing and one on the guitar
  • Closeup of the guitarist
  • Five perform a capella
  • Three pose for a photo
  • A student at the mic
  • Two perform, one on guitar and one singing
  • A student performs a piano piece
  • Two perform, one singing and one on the piano
  • Two perform, dimly lit
  • A student at the microphone with a sheet of paper in hand
  • A student at the piano performs
  • A student performs a skit
  • Six perform together
  • Two perform, one singing and one on the guitar

New England

In Northfield, Luke Cecchi (’24) and his “Barbershop Augmented Quartet” started off the festivities by singing “The Star-Spangled Banner” in four-part harmony. The night’s musical genres ranged from folk, Bossa Nova, and Irish to classical and musical theatre. Ben Purtell (’26) impressed the audience with “Impromptu in C Minor,” a piano piece of his own composition, and sibling duo Kate (’23) and Suzanna Pfeiffer (’25) played and sang Maddie Poppe’s “Wildflowers.” Two dancers demonstrated their talents as well: Claire Caughron (’26) did a traditional Scottish Highland dance and Gavin Hazel (’25) wowed the audience with his tap-dancing skills with a routine to Frankie Valli’s “Beggin’.”

It was a night of fun in Olivia Music Hall, with students vigorously applauding each act. “I love coming to Open Mic Night,” said one. “It’s great to see all the students get a chance to get up there and show off their talent.”

Video & Photos - New England
  • A trio -- drummer, guitarist, and violinist -- perform
  • Two perform a skit in scarves and vests
  • The two performers, now clad in hats, continue the skit
  • The audience applauds
  • The guitar/drums/violin trio performs!
  • The students applaud
  • Another shot of the trio performing
  • A duo performs: one on guitar, and both singing
  • Students applaud
  • A student performs a ballet routine
  • Students applaud and one gives a thumbs-up
  • A student performs on the piano
  • Two perform a duo, one with the guitar
  • Seven perform a capella
  • A student sings
  • A student performs a solo dance routine
  • Four perform
  • A row in the back gives a standing ovation
  • The other students also rise, applauding
  • Two perform a skit standing on chairs