By Riley Gonzales, News Editor
This year, River Hill’s annual Coffeehouse took place Friday, March 24th. Thanks to the hard work of the NAHS, it proved to be a fun night filled with friends, food, and spectacular performances.
Held annually, Coffeehouse showcases student’s talents and raises money for a specific charity, this year’s charity being Grassroots. Senior Mia Wolfe, president of NAHS, explained, “Basically, what it is, people show up, there’s food, henna, face painting, stuff like that, and then we have performances, which can range from poetry to singing to dancing.” A coffee bar was also set up in the back of the room so that students attending the event could grab a cup to drink while enjoying the acts.
“I’ve been to a coffeehouse my freshman year and last year. I always loved the Coffeehouse, it’s one of my favorite events,” senior Jenny Liu, who performed on her violin at the event, shared. Performers signed up in advance to display their talents as both individuals and groups.
The cafeteria, where the event was held, was decorated with fairy lights and candles to reflect this year’s theme, “Starry Night.” Mia explained they chose this theme by popular demand: “Every year people just submit themes and then we vote on them. Whatever the most popular is gets chosen.”
There were many unique performances to be seen that night, from instrumentalists to singers to tap dancing and short story reading. One of the performers, sophomore Jonathan Mackrell, shared that he chose to perform because “Any performance opportunity for me is an opportunity to have fun!” Jenny Liu adds on to this, explaining, “They say one of the greatest gifts you can give to someone is an opportunity, so any event like this which creates opportunities for others is a great thing for this school.”
Events like these are important because, as Jonathan explains, “In general, they allow people to relax and have fun and show their talents and creativity. I think it really fosters a good, supportive, healthy school environment.”
Indeed, the Coffeehouse generated a cozy, collective environment where River Hill students got to enjoy the company of their friends while supporting their peer’s amazing talents. Not only that, but by the end of the night, nearly $350 had been raised for Grassroots. This year’s Coffeehouse was truly a success.