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by Brittany Jackson
As you know, February is Black History Month. It is a time when we celebrate our heritage and learn more about great blacks that paved the way for us. Here at North Central High, we decided to celebrate Black History month a little differently that we had in previous years. Mr. Paul Benson, the program coordinator, got some of North Central’s finest talent and had them to act as great singers from the 60's and the 70's.
The program kicked off with the basic things like the welcome, the Pledge of Allegiance, and the singing of the National Anthems. Following all of that, the program was introduced by Latoya Moore.
Ms. Guillory portrayed Billie Holiday singing, “The Man I Love”. Following that, we had a poem, and a musical selection. The real deal began with Brandon Dixon portraying Al Green singing, I’m So Tired Of Being Alone”. This performance set the mood just right for the rest of the program.
The crowd went wild when Brandon Stagg portrayed Lenny Williams singing, “Cause I Love You”. He had a wonderful cast in his act which consisted of, Effie Cane, his first love, Jamie Tanner, his best friend, and Alexis Bush, his new love.
After that, Aleceia Durand, Elizabeth Johnson, Chastity Rideau, and Christopher Offord, portrayed Aretha Franklin and her crew singing, “Chain of Fools”. Next, we had a selection by the Supremes. These lovely young ladies were, Darlithia Malveaux, Chastity Rideau, and Tiffany Jones.
Following that, Shawanna Scott, Victor Birotte, Jock Chambers, and Theo Lewis, portrayed Gladys Knight and the Pips. They sang,, “Midnight Train To Georgia”. After that, there was someone there to tell us about the 60's and the 70's.
The crowd went wild once again when Ike and Tina Turner and their crew sang “Proud Mary”. This wonderful performance consisted of Darlithia Malveaux, as Tina Turner, Jamie Tanner, as Ike, Ashley Harris, Dajuana Oliney, Brittany Jackson, and Alexis Bush, as the backup, and Christopher Offord, Brandon Stagg, and Brandon Dixon as the band.
The excitement continued as the Temptin’ Temptations sang, “Ain’t Too Proud To Beg”. These fine and talented young men were, Brandon Stagg, Alton Celestine, Willie Dixon, Michael Lamb, and Jamie Tanner. After their first selection, they jumped off of the stage and sang “My Girl”. The only difference was that Brandon Dixon took the place of his brother Willie.
After all the wonderful performances, the students joined together on the stage toreceived a standing ovation. Then Brittany Came on and got the audience all emotional by doing a tribute to Mr. Thaddeus Vondedrick Johnson, former band director. She sang a song by William “Smokey” Robinson entitled, “I’ll Miss You My Buddy” (Really Gonna Miss
You)”. Afterwards, she joined Ashley Harris and Chastity Rideau on the stage and sang a song by Smokey Robinson and the Miracles entitled, “Ooh Baby Baby”.
Mr. Johnnie Johnson did a reading about “Character”. Followed by a rap song entitled, “Southside” by Lil’ Keke who was portrayed by Clarence Harris.Then, we had our gospel segment of the program. Our special guests, the Rideau Sisters, sang a beautiful gospel medly. These sisters better known as the “Dewdrops from Heaven”, were Antranetta Rideau, Latoya Rideau, and Chastity Rideau.
Following that, North Central’s own “Sounds Of Joy” Sang a gospel tune entitled “More Than I Can Bear”.
This was one of the best programs that North Central has ever has according to most people that attended. It took a lot of courage, patience, and hard work from the students that participated. It was very different and unique. Mr. Benson, was very proud of the hard work that the students put into the program. Every time someone mentions the program, he grins from ear to ear, and quickly gives the students the credit that they deserve.
