Lizzie Swanson ’28
News Editor
This past Saturday, audiences packed the Performing Arts Center in an electric performance by the Caribbean African Student Assembly (CASA). The title of this year’s annual showcase was Pageants & Parades. This three-hour event sold out days in advance, evidently packing the seats of the transformed PAC. Students, faculty, and families all gathered to celebrate the night, dressed impeccably well as they stood in line for the show – a line which notably stretched far out its doors. The brightly lit runway across the main floor was Saturday’s home for CASA members to perform for the Holy Cross community and to celebrate one another and their dedication to the arts. Fluorescent hues of magenta, green, and deep ocean blues illuminated audience members and performers alike throughout the night.
Chaplain Joe Penny led the event, introducing first Latinidad, a Latin American group that honors their culture by way of dance. The group performed several numbers, incorporating Salsa and Reggaetón music. The dancers’ playful energy brought the crowd to life. Audience members clapped, cheered, and howled throughout the night as CASA members stunned on the runway. Periodically, the dance and vocal performances would be interrupted by student models. Incredibly dashing and meticulously organized, these runway performances were a highlight for many audience members. The outfits worn by the models were notably fashionable, often covered in gems, sparkles, and feathers. These designs played with print, color, and texture in unique and unexpected ways. The style of clothes could be described as high fashion streetwear, incorporating denim, leather, and silk. Outspoken pieces like monochrome suits and vibrant gowns left audience members enthralled by the beauty of the performers.
Co-Chair of CASA, Dami Oguntuyo, delivered a spoken word performance that sent chills down several spines. Discussing imposter syndrome and self-worth, Oguntuyo gave an authentic performance of female performance. Following her moving display, Fusion took the stage. This hip-hop dance team was upbeat as their synchronized movements mesmerized the crowd. With the conclusion of Fusion’s performance, intermission commenced. Audience members had the opportunity to connect with their loved ones involved in the performance during this 30-minute break. Light refreshments and a photobooth occupied many as performers prepared for the second act.
Rhythm Nation Steppaz (RNS) were first to perform after intermission. RNS, the only step team on campus, did not miss a beat (or step) in their thoughtful performance. Dancers echoed in the PAC as they clapped and cheered, filling the room with an enthusiastic step routine. As the next runway number began, saxophonist Temitayo Kayode performed a solo routine as the models strutted. Serenading the fourth scene, “Prints that Speak,” Kayode stunned audience members as jazz music filled the room.
Ending the night was the Miss Universe runway walk which featured several Holy Cross women taking to the stage in elaborate gowns and tiaras. Roots, Holy Cross’s own Afro-Caribbean dance team, followed suit in a final dance number. When asked, freshman class dean Rob Bellin stated, “This was an incredible night. The first-year class looked great.” One student remarked how beautiful it was to see our diverse campus not only share their beauty with the community, but bear their soul in front of the audience.
A highlight of the performance was the amount of love and care the performers had for one another. It was evident in the way they encouraged each other and cheered on their teammates that the CASA community is strong. The members of CASA evidently worked hard to cultivate a night of community, belonging, and celebration for all of Holy Cross to enjoy. The night could not have been possible without student directors Deborah Adekunle, Christi McConnel, and Maria Campos as well as the Production Manager Annaliese Rhoden. Students are encouraged to be on the lookout for future events held by CASA and to attend next year’s fierce and fabulous showcase.
Featured image courtesy of @hc_casa on Instagram
Copy Edited by Sophia Olbrysh ’28
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