By Thalya Samuels
On April 19th and 20th, the Apopka High School Darter Chorus gathered to perform a musical variety show. The performance incorporated songs from notable Disney films including The Lion King, Mulan, Frozen and more. Attendees had the opportunity to see the different choral subgroups that constitute the Darter Chorus. Particularly, the event was important for graduating seniors, as it was their last performance as high school students.
The show began with a medley of songs from the popular motion picture Moana. The first song was ‘I Am Moana’ and was sung by Charity Graham, Gabriela Gonzalez, and Senior Girls. After singing more songs from a variety of motion pictures, they finished off the show with songs from High School Musical. These songs were performed by the Viva Voce and Senior choral subgroups. The experience caused feelings of sentimentality to emerge, as it was the power of Disney songs that inspired many to join chorus in the first place. “I loved the theme of Disney as a whole aspect of everyone’s childhood, the love of the tunes and sounds of Milan, Frozen, High School Musical, Moana… It was by far my all time favorite show.” said senior Jeffery Laux. It was not the beauty of the songs alone that got emotions running high, but also the fact that this is their final time singing together. “We all knew that this would be the last time performing with this particular group of people so it got really emotional.” said senior Emily Weaver.
Even though they will miss their high school chorus experience, its terminus has presented the opportunity for them to reflect on their abilities and how chorus has shaped their lives. Many have reflected on how much they have developed their talent. “My abilities have totally grown. I had a solo during the concert, and if you would’ve told me that as a freshman, I wouldn’t have believed you,” said Weaver. For many seniors, chorus is a long journey in which they’ve grown and become the students they are today. “I’m extremely pleased [with his experience] due to the fact that I know I’m leaving the program in the hands of many young and talented juniors and underclassmen. I’ll miss Shafer [the chorus director] and all of my friends that I have made these past years, but I’m excited for the future,” said Laux.
Before the last number, seniors gave Mrs. Shafer a bouquet of flowers to express their appreciation for her guidance and mentorship.
