Senior SING! Steals the Spotlight with Killer Show

Besides the overall win, Senior SING! also took home Best Alma Mater. *Photo: Continental Studios*

By STEFANIE RYKHLO and ANNA MIROSHNYK

With contributions from Daniel Ghoprial and Oluwajembola Orioke

Stefanie Rykhlo was a member of Junior SING!

Roaring cheers and applause filled the auditorium air as the seniors claimed victory in Midwood’s 78th annual SING! production on January 17 and 18. The student-run tradition saw all four grades compete in a showcase of talent.

“The emotions were running high just to see who would put on the best performance — SoFresh, juniors, or seniors,” said Dr. Robert Quinlan, the school’s principal. “I was just so proud of everyone’s efforts.”

“The kids were really excited about it,” said supervisor Mr. Lawrence Kolotkin. “Kids learn a lot, they make great memories. I just enjoy seeing them work together to create something, to make it actually happen themselves, and then by the coalescence on stage, seeing the excitement of it.”

The competition, managed by Mr. Kolotkin and the overall commissioners, brought together writers, dancers, singers, actors, stage crews, and bands for a contest of originality and workmanship. Students showcased their skill in an incredible exhibition of musical theater.

For Leah Josephson ‘25, the overall commissioner, this year’s S!NG! was the culmination of a journey that started her freshman year. “I really love the process of collaborating with a bunch of students to create something super original and unique,” Josephson said. “If you try and incentivize making art, it won’t really be as fulfilling in the end.”

“Being a commissioner has been unforgettable,” said Senior Commissioner Valerie Olevsky. “The energy, teamwork, and dedication that goes into the show makes it so special. I've loved working with such a creative and passionate team. It's amazing to see all the hard work come together.”

The emphasis was on change and redemption with this year's theme, "Second Chances.” The striking storytelling struck a chord with both audiences and performers.

“It was so comforting seeing the way the audience reacted and the cheers,” said actor Nicole Paul ‘26. “It was amazing watching all our efforts pay off.”

The seniors secured the win with their compelling murder mystery horror-thriller, Revir Der Eht. Set in the eerie small town of Riverside, the play recounted a senior road trip gone wrong when Taylor (Elvis Redzematovic), Quinn (Manny Clarke), and Mother (Ashley Chen) discover a sinister secret behind a series of devastating deaths.

“[SING!] is such a great production with such a good sense of community,” said Chen. “I loved working on it for the past two years. The victory was so rewarding considering the fact that we have been waiting for this since SoFresh.”

“Seeing art, acting, and dance all come together to put on a show piqued my interest. I was really curious to try it out, and it worked out perfectly,” said dancer Irena Beznos ‘25.

“Performing in SING! has been the opportunity of a lifetime,” said actor Isabel Eppel ‘25. “Freshman year I would be so shocked that I would be able to get out of my bubble and perform in front of hundreds of people on a huge stage.”

In addition to their overall victory, the seniors also claimed Best Chorus, and director Kamora Monroe won Best Singer. Senior SING! took home Best Alma Mater with “Forever Young,” finishing the night off with tears.

The juniors also delivered a riveting performance with Blood Feud, which won Best Script. A hunter, Marcus Branner (Luke Cooper), is framed for the murder of the daughter of the wealthiest tycoon in Floptropica. A lawyer, Lilith Bloom (Fery Delawar), takes on the case to unveil the hidden truth behind the death.

"It was incredible to see everyone's creativity shine through," said Junior Commissioner Matthew Chen. "Even though we didn't win, we're proud of what we accomplished."

For the second year in a row, Cooper received the Best Actor award. "I just tried to put everything I had into my performance," he said. "Acting is more than just saying lines, it's about making others feel things. Winning this award means so much to me.”

The juniors also received Best Band, with a pit that provided snappy, high-energy music for each song. They did not have as many members compared with the others, but they fought through the obstacles thrown their way. “When I first joined, I was a part of the stage crew but due to the lack of actors I decided to step up and play a role,” said Paul. “I am so grateful I did because I've made a bunch of new friends and learned new skills.”

“Watching the cast improve made all the hard work worth it,” said Junior Dance Director Leyla Hamidova. “Choreographing routines and guiding dancers helped me grow as a leader. Our teamwork and energy created a strong sense of community.”

SoFresh attracted viewers with The Calm After the Storm, a play about Eleanor (Sophia Aparicio ‘27 and Alexa Zavala ‘28) and her daughter Gabriella (Umayma Shakoor ‘28 and Dana Saltachin ‘28) overcoming a devastating loss. After a near-death experience, the two are forced to work together to find unity and loyalty as they are confronted by long-hidden issues.

“SING! has helped me become more outgoing and has introduced me to so many incredible friends,” said SoFresh Commissioner Susan Zhang ‘27. “I really admire how SoFresh consistently puts forth their best effort, no matter the situation.”

“I built very strong bonds with my group, and the experience taught me important skills like patience and understanding,” said SoFresh acting director Jasmin Yin ‘27.

SoFresh wowed the crowd with their precise movement, earning them the Best Choreographed Ensemble award.

The Best Dancer award was claimed by their dance director, Anna Belkova ‘27. “I couldn't believe it when I heard my name get called for that award,” she said. “After months of dedication, it felt good to see my work was appreciated. I'm definitely looking forward to doing SING! again.”

Since September, the crews have been working tirelessly to display their talents. Countless hours were spent restlessly writing, rehearsing, designing, and choreographing. The effect on the audience was clear.

“When the stage lights first hit, you could hear the chatter dying down, and there was this electric vibe as if someone was about to give a rock solo,” said audience member Yousef Ghoprial.

“The show was so captivating. You could see all the devotion the students put into this performance,” said Ava Vaynorkh ‘27.

“As I was watching, I could only remember my freshman self performing for the first time,” said Michelle Botvinsky ‘26. “It's amazing to watch people getting their on-stage experience. It's crazy to see how the show has evolved and changed throughout the years.”

SING! was a testament to the dedication of its participants, who were supported by loyal faculty. “I do want to give kudos to all the adults who contributed to the show,” said Dr. Quinlan. He acknowledged the hard work of Ms. Alina Bernstein, Mr. Julio Hernandez, Mr. Daniel Jordan, and others who played a role in bringing SING! to life.

“I've been a part of SING! for three years now, and I'm already excited for next year,” said actor Carol Zhong ‘26. “SING! has been such an amazing experience in high school, bringing new friendships, fun, and unforgettable moments. Don't miss out – join SING! 2026.”