On January 16, the Cranford International Thespian Society (ITS) held its annual Open Mic Night in the school library. The cozy environment invited peers and families to enjoy the various talents of CHS students.
The night’s MC and ITS president, Riley Turnamian, introduced the evening. Set one began with delightful performances from Lola Clifton, singing “Some People” from the musical Gypsy and Shay Morin covering Sabrina Carpenter’s “Couldn’t Make It Any Harder”. Soon after, the student-band Pit Stop, composed of Addison McCarthy, Gemma Alesi, Claire Kelly, and Ruby Chernosky, performed a cover of “Open Arms” by SZA. Next year, you can catch them all on the football field playing for the drumline and percussion ensemble of CHS marching band. The only non-musical performance that night came from Analise Tully, ‘a history teacher’s favorite student’, who recited all US presidents in her Abe Lincoln uniform!
This year’s Open Mic Night audience also saw a rare performance from ITS advisor, Mr. McQuade, who performed “Let Me Drown” by Oliver Peck. He hopes to empower further performers, emphasizing the casualness and community aspect of the event. Set one closed with Cranford Highschool’s treble a cappella group, West End Blend, performing an arrangement of “Put Your Records on” by Corrine Bailey Rae.
Soon after, set two continued with Maya Kimmel, Addison McCarthy, Kai Solon, and Riley Turnamian’s rendition of “They Danced” from Hadestown. The stirring piece involves accordion, drums, and guitar. Later in the set, CHS choir members Melody Jennings, Josie McSweeney, and Layla Nesheiwat performed “What is This Feeling” from Wicked.
The night eventually came to a close with Madrigal singer Sofia Monroy covering “Night Shift” by Lucy Dacus, a beautiful way to draw in this successful night! Although the stage lights are now dimmed, we implore you to visit the ITS instagram (@cranfordits) where all the performances were uploaded, and we hope everyone continues to support the CHS visual and performing arts where these students demonstrate their remarkable talents!
