Music, dance, and magic tricks. What more could a college student want? Throw in free pie, hilarious and often times bizarre YouTube videos and you get Punk ’n Pie. This year’s annual fall talent show was anything but predictable, starting with its location.
The event was moved from Sutherland Auditorium, with its seating capacity of 700, to the Soubirou parking lot, which hosted roughly 1400 students. The night’s MCs, Emerson Senator Tomas Gustafson and SMU’s Patrick McCann were practically an act themselves with their jokes, commentary, and constant wardrobe changes, ranging from coordinating Christmas sweaters to overalls and flannel.
Unexpected power outage doesn’t stop event
Perhaps the most unpredictable aspect of the event was a brief power outage that occurred during the Pidgeoto act. Facilities was able to bring back part of the sound a few minutes later which enabled Johnathan Sywulka to entertain the crowd with his witty and ultimately flawless magic tricks. By the end of his act, the sound and lights were back in order and the show continued with multiple musical performances and two fantastic dance routines.
A defining factor for this year’s show was the sheer magnitude of talent presented at the contest. Co-leader of the Xopoc dance troupe, Candace Washington, reflected on the amazement of “see[ing] the talent of Biola” come together. Xopoc took third place for their performance to Florence and The Machine’s “Cosmic Love.” Their routine this year differed from past performances because they danced to one complete song instead of a medley of songs. Washington later commented that the act was not about performing, but more about presenting the message of Jesus’ love through dance.
First place awarded for creativity and talent
Ryan Leith wowed the crowd with his artistic style and talent combining looping with both vocals and guitar. His original piece entitled “Smile for Me” highlighted strong vocals and passionate lyrics. When asked about the inspiration for the song, he replied with a grin, “I don’t play well with others.”
He explained that he enjoys working on his own, but does not want to be “just another acoustic guy,” which led to his tinkering with looping. His effort paid off. Leith walked away, or more appropriately was carried away by a group of supportive and exuberant friends, with the first place prize.
Night ends on an improvised note
The final musical performance of the night created an imaginative setting with a creative interpretation of “Wake Up” by Arcade Fire. The Ticking Clock Orchestra, led by Brian Albright, was initially inspired by drummer Matt Hagerty’s ideas of adding the clock theme and orchestra. Albright commented that it “was the most fun [he’d] had on stage ever,” and credited it to the group effort of the band.
At the end of their number, Albright stepped forward on the stage and had the audience join them singing the last few notes, which both engaged the audience and surprised the singer himself because it was not a planned part of the performance. His improvisation paid off as he and his band, much to their surprise, landed second place.
