Diverse Celebrations Showcased at International Night

Members of the Asian American Club pose onstage after a performance at International Night May 3. This night is an annual event at RHS where students can celebrate their heritage, bring in traditional foods and perform. --Courtesy of Stephan Han
Members of the Asian American Club pose onstage after a performance at International Night May 3. This night is an annual event at RHS where students can celebrate their heritage, bring in traditional foods and perform. –Courtesy of Stephan Han

Cultures and traditions from all around the world were represented May 3 for RHSa�� annual International Night. Audience members gathered in the auditorium to enjoy singing and traditional dance numbers from countries such as South Korea and Vietnam.

The performances were preceded by a procession of flags, displayed by students in the aisles of the auditorium. Students coordinated movements while representing various nations before the masters of ceremony, seniors Sarah Huang and Vanessa Tellez, welcomed the crowd. “It was amazing having the opportunity [to be master of ceremonies] with Vanessa, and a great way to end at Rockville,” said Huang.

Rehearsals began two days before the event in order to plan performances, transitions, order and timing. The event ran for a total of approximately three hours, including the food sampling after the show which allowed audience members to try cuisines from different countries all around the world.

Several acts featured cultural dances, inspired by different heritages. “It was great to show part of my culture. I also sang with the chorus which was really fun,” said senior Dede Gracia Etey-Benissan, who performed with the step team and in a cultural dance alongside seniors Alexus Washington and Doris Okletey. Many acts included elaborate cultural clothing that illustrated the traditional dress of the nation.

Food was served afterwards in the cafeteria and included appetizers, main courses and desserts. From rice to pastries, attendees were able to sample food from different continents and walk around in between all areas to get a taste of everything.

The event included countries from almost every continent. “This was the first time I went to International Night and I’m so glad I did. The performances were beautiful, colorful, strong and displayed many unknown cultures of Rockville,” said junior Erica Ferguson. Many of the acts, such as the Taiwanese dance routine, are exclusive to that culture and are featured in religious settings or cultural celebrations.

Other performances were more contemporary, such as the K-POP team that performs modern Korean dance moves, a popular phenomenon in Korean culture. Acts differed in style, length and execution throughout the night in a smorgasbord of entertainment.