Vanguard’s Mic Open for Diversity

Newport Mesa Church’s sanctuary was bursting with raw talent during the Diversity Club’s Open Mic Night. Performances were comprised of self-composed music, popular cover songs, and personal spoken word poems that left the audience in awe.

The night began with a female a capella group called Powerhouse, performing “Royals” by hit solo artist Lorde. There were more than 20 acts that followed with performances that brought the audience to their feet several times throughout the night.

One of the those performances was with sophomore and student-athlete Maya Kennedy who was picked from the waiting list at the last minute due to an artist dropping out. She had little time to practice her piece and had spent the entire day attempting to memorize it. Prior to stepping onto the stage, Kennedy said, “I have only performed in small funerals and a graduation [ceremony], but performing in front of my college peers is going to be hard.”

Between acts, emcees Spencer Green and Vanessa Williams brought comic relief. Meanwhile, in the background, members of Vanguard’s Jazz ensemble showcased their talents on the drums, saxophone, bass, and electric keyboard.

“The Diversity club really stepped it up this year,” senior Esmeralda Perez noted, as the hot chocolate and candy ‘bar’ was a highlight for her and her friends. Students noted that in the past, the event had been rather unorganized and slow, but this year was more enjoyable.