Debuting Singarama: The Eras – Night 1 Ignites Lipscomb University with Musical Magic

Lipscomb University’s campus was buzzing with excitement as the curtains rose on the inaugural night of Singarama: The Eras. Students, faculty, alumni, family and friends gathered to witness a showcase of talent on stage. From the beats of the 70s to the neon vibes of the 80s and the iconic hits of the 90s, each era brought its own unique sound to the evening’s performances.

The hosts kicked off the show with “Let’s Go Crazy” by Prince. Giving the crowd a small taste of what is to come. 

The night featured three different groups from the 70s, 80s and 90s.  

The 70s: The Delta NaNaNa Era featured hits songs “Renegade” by STYX and “Old Time Rock & Roll” by Bob Seger.  

The storyline for the era was introducing Lipscomb to a more modern era with rock music. A group of boys attempt to defy the tradition of acapella music and introduce rock and roll to Lipscomb. Singing “Old Time Rock and Roll the group must convince President Pullias that this music is here to stay. With the Presidents final approval and the announcement of the annual rock and roll music festival, “Delta NaNaNa” the group celebrates with “Rock and Roll all Nite”. 

Introducing the 80s was host Logan Bennett singing patriotic hits, Summer of 69, Rock in the USA, and Born in the USA which was a real crowd pleaser. Host Max Martin sings “Amarillo by Morning” adding a violin to the house band and a bit of country to the music city. Finally, Allie Andres closed out the 80s intro with Holding out for a hero which had a flames theme stage.  

The 80s group, The Championship Era, opened with Walking on Sunshine. From there President Collins realized the Mascot suit was gone. Without spoiling a great act, it was President McQueen arriving in the Back-to-the future car to guide the students to the missing bison mascot suit.  

The final performance group, 90s: The Inspiration Era, told the origin story of the non-profit charity Healing Hands International. The group led by directors Sean Worth and Emmie Huffines, opened the act with Everybody (Backstreet’s Back) by Backstreet Boys. The scene then opened to the classroom where Dr. Steger’s marketing class was assigned to create a humanitarian project. With other ongoing storylines, the group performed “That Don’t Impress Me Much” by Shania Twain. In the end several groups in the class came to terms with their conflicts to continue the charity Healing Hands, closing with “Larger Than Life” by Backstreet Boys. With a large shout of “Inspiration” at the end. 

When it came to the competition side of Singarama, there were points to be earned for a potential tie breaker down the road. The awards tonight was nominated by participating students in Singarama. The Willard Collin’s award resulted in a tie for the first time ever. Janeyah Anderson, SGA president presented this award.  

“This award goes to a dedicated student in Singarama. This student has demonstrated commitment to Singarama since the beginning. This is the first year we have had a tie.” 

“The first winner of this year’s Willard award is described as hard working, gentle and encouraging. And she has made Singarama so much fun. We would like to award this award to Audra Hochesang.” 

Hochesang is the co-director of the 80s era group, The Championship Era. She is a senior accounting major from Southern Indiana. Hochesang has participated in Singarama every year since her college journey began.  

Anderson had this to say about the second winner of the Willard Award.  

“The second winner of the Willard Award is described as a gracious leader who never fails to have a smile on her face and is praised for her dedication to this show. We would like to award this to Catherine Marshall.” 

Marshall is the co-director of the 70s group, The Delta NaNaNa Era. She is a senior business management major from Nashville, Tennessee. Marshall is the secretary of Phi Sigma.  

The next prize that was given out was the Coba Craig award. Coba Craig came up with the idea for Singarama. The award is given to the person who shows the most Singarama spirit. Presenting this year’s addition was last year’s recipient, Drew Dragan.  

Dragan had this to say about the winner.  

“This person has been a huge part in making our show amazing. Her talent is insane, and her dedication is unmatched. She gets to rehearsals early and has all her lines and dances memorized. She has been amazing in Singarama. Drum roll please. This year’s winner is Betsy Pack.” 

Pack is a participant in the 70s group, The Delta NaNaNa Era.  

Audience favorites included the Singarama Bunch, the electrifying “Rock and Roll All Nite” by the 70s era, the Donut Den scene by the 80s era, and the various incarnations of President McQueen. 

For those who missed the first night, there are still multiple opportunities to catch Singarama: The Eras on Friday, April 5, at 7:00 PM, and Saturday, April 6, at 1:00 PM and 7:00 PM. 

Stay updated with Herd media for more on this spectacular event. 

Photos courtesy of Isaiah Davis and Micah Barkley