The hard work that began with auditions last May, came to fruition last weekend, with the news from the Hastings Riverside Company Showchoir that they placed 1st receiving the Grand Champion trophy at the FAME Showchoir Competition held in Branson, Missouri. In a regular season that brought 2 second place, 3 3rd place and a 4th place finish, the group definately saved the best for last, by topping choirs from several other states to claim the best vocals award and grand champion honor. KDWA reached Director Luke Warren on Sunday afternoon as the buses were traveling home to get his reaction to the competition. He mentioned that the wait for the winners announcement is particuarly difficult.
The student singer/dancers are supported by the back up band directed by Jake Bohlken, assistant director Jen Fox and a student team of crew that manages the stage and takes care of costume changes and equipment. Warren gives plenty of credit to the entire team.
Although the win entitled the group to represent the competition at FAME National Finals in Chicago on April 21st, it would mean a lot of fundraising in a short amount of time, which the directors have decided to forgo. Warren says his first year atHastings has been great and the Branson win, a very satisfying accomplishment.
Next up for most of the students is the Spring Choir concert that will take place on May 30th.
Photo by Luke Warren
