By Satina Tolman
For The New Era
The fifth annual SHOCASE Gala, themed “Passport to the World,” transformed the Sweet Home High School auditorium into an international showcase of music, dance, and culture on Saturday evening. Hosted by Mayor Susan Coleman and community leader Bob Burford, the event welcomed audience members for a night of stunning performances, global flavors, and heartfelt community celebration.
The evening began with a VIP reception featuring gourmet hors d’oeuvres provided by 1847, Serranos Taqueria, Taylor Made Bakery, and Spoletos. Guests enjoyed the delicacies and mingled with the performers.
“I’m very pleased with the Gala,” said Director Shirley Austin, of SHOCASE. “The performers were outstanding, the reception was lovely, and I believe the VIP guests had a nice time.”
The night continued with live pre-show music from Scott Swanson and Obi Christman set the mood as audience members arrived. The main program opened with a moving rendition of “Faraway Places” by Stefani Brown, setting the stage for a musical journey across continents.
From the romantic swing of “Moondance,” performed by Sean Morgan with Swanson on the piano, to the sweet harmonies of “Edelweiss” by Stefani Brown and her young daughters Leia and Elsa, the program offered a wide array of musical genres and cultural touchstones.
Ward Christman impressed with his French rendition of “L’Heure Exquise,” followed by an energetic performance of “Ein Madchen Oder Weibchen” (“A Girl or a Wife”) by Henry Wolthuis on the accordion, joined by Christman, this time singing in German. Wolthuis then followed that up with the “Lichtensteiner Polka.”
David Dominy delivered a stirring version of the Italian ballad “Caruso,” while special guest, Laura Allyon of Corvallis, mesmerized the audience with a belly dance to “Batwane Beek.” The international theme continued with an elegant harp performance of the Irish tune “Garryowen” by SHHS’s own Olivia Saveski’s and fellow student Ember Ogden’s heartfelt rendition of “Danny Boy.”
A standout ensemble performance of “Caledonia” featured Trisha King, Loralai Mark, David Dominy, and Ric Taylor, backed by bagpiper David Brock, who also performed “The Gael.” The Sweet Home High School Repertory Choir, under Alison Hay’s direction, brought the audience to Brazil with their vibrant performance of “Três Cantos Nativos dos Índios Kraó,” a song based on three melodies sung by the Kraho tribe – a group of indigenous Brazilians living in the forests of northern Brazil.. Choir members who performed were Colton Bennett, Elena Briggs, Thomas Culbertson, Levi Ensley, Charm Flowers, Eleanor Larsen, Kaylee Looney, Madison Lytle, Loralai Mark, Hannah McCluskey, Jericho Reed, Chana Smith, Levi Victor, Jhordan Weltz and Cloey Windom.
The evening concluded on an uplifting note with special guest Johnathan Sterling performing Bob Marley’s “One Love” and “Redemption Song,” leaving attendees inspired by the unifying power of music.
Austin expressed gratitude for the community’s involvement: “We are very grateful for the volunteers in assisting all aspects of the event. The student volunteers, the Interact Club members, and the band students were helpful and truly great kids to work with.”
“I’d like to thank (band director) Lori Tuter and Jarid Adams for recruiting the students, and Amy and Andee in the SHHS office for always making things easy for SHOCASE,” Austin added, acknowledging the efforts of those who helped bring the event together.
This year’s gala was made possible through the generous support of sponsors, including premier sponsor Cascade Timber Consulting, longtime supporter Wendi Melcher, 44North Credit Union, and Opening Act, who provided the event wardrobe. Austin also expressed appreciation to Serranos, 1847, and Taylor Made bakery for donating their food and services.
As Coleman noted, “Tonight we proved once again that art, music, and community know no borders.” The SHOCASE Gala continues to be a cherished celebration of culture and local talent – one that truly brought the world to Sweet Home.