Lower Campus Variety Show: Cross-Campus Collaboration

Feb 8, 2023 | All School, Blog, Fine Arts, Lower and Middle School, Lower School News, Middle School News, News

It’s that magical time again on Lower Campus when the stars come out to shine. This Thursday, February 9 at 6:00 pm in Fellowship Hall, 50 students from Kindergarten through Grade 5 will take the stage in a total of 35 acts showcasing their talents and special skills in the Lower School Variety Show. There are singers, magicians, and comedians from hula hoop to all genres of dance.

Throughout show preparation, performers have partnered with students and teachers around the School to help perfect their acts. The Show exhibits Mount Vernon’s commitment to a growth mindset. Lower School has hosted MVXperts from within our community, ranging from students on the Upper Campus, Upper Campus Admin, and Lower Campus teachers. This mentorship program builds relationships across campuses by fostering collaboration between students and faculty that normally would not interact. Cade Dehem, Class of 2027 coached Grade 4 student Landon F on his rap of Eminem’s hit, β€œLose Yourself”. Natalie Fiacco, Class of 2023 coached Grade 5 student Ava G on her ballad, β€œPart of Your World”.

Director of Upper Campus Arts, Caroline Sandrew helped bring magical acts to life. And Middle School Head of School, Leah Hannon, inspired a singing duo from Grade 5 as they sang Andra Day’s song β€œRise Up”.

Students are honing their craft and improving their acts bit by bit. Even Lower Campus students are stepping into leadership roles as supportive coaches. Saaba G, Class of 2031 counseled Sophie R and Olivia M, Class of 2033, from one dancer to another.

On Wednesday, February 8, the Tech Team joins the mix to add lights, sound, and stage management. Middle School Director of Theater Spencer Stephens and two Grade 8 students, Charlotte Chaffin and Cameron Flotta will head the production team for the show. With Kathryn H, Class of 2030 creating the slide deck, Amelia N and Eva H, Class of 2033 as assistant directors, and Grades 2 and 3 brothers Ocean and Lion D as the Masters of Ceremony, the show is set to be an entirely student-led spectacular.

Join the performers for a beautiful celebration of Lower Campus creativity, courage, and entertainment in Fellowship Hall on Thursday, February 9 at 6:00 pm. You will leave the show lifted by the power of student expression, collaboration, and confidence.

Thank you to the Variety Show Team:
Lower School Performing Arts Teacher Amanda Lower
Director, Lower Campus Visual & Performing Arts Shay Jones
Grade 5 Head of Grade Emily Edwards
Lower School Executive Assistant Katie Jennison