With over 50 years of tradition this year’s Mr. Sugarcane showcase as always, did not disappoint. The 90s theme, with its costumes, music, props, dances and graphics turned back the clock for our alumni and audience members and evoked feelings of nostalgia and unforgettable memories. This year’s nominees were made-up of some of the class of 2024 ‘s favorite seniors, including Evan Talucci, Tyreek’e Robinson, Alex Papale, Kaleb Falcone, Jack Austin, Damontez Mcdowell, Daniel Zoller, Michael Hetherington, Liam Benford, and Jackson Kruse.
The boys kicked off the show by killing it with their first dance number, with the hit Spice Girls classic “Wannabe.” They had lots of energy and excitement on the stage, and although coordination was lacking entirely, that is exactly what makes it so entertaining to watch. What made this number so amusing, was their comedic attempt at the dance routine audience saw their personalities shine through. They were also very involved in her fashion show, each of the candidates getting their time to shine.
I would have liked to see another dance number or two involving our Mr. Sugarcanes, whether it was all of them at once or a select few. But aside from that, they nailed it. The Sugarcanes team and Ms. Babroski’s dance classes performed spirited routines to nineties’ essentials and radio hits such as “…Baby One More Time” and “Party Up.” The Sugarcanes in particular were very expressive and deliberate with their routines and tricks. Overall, every performance given was very immersive, with each one being so different from the previous.
One of the many aspects that makes the Mr. Sugarcane showcase special is the unity it creates. The nominees themselves were composed of students involved with orchestra, band, and theatre as well as athletes from football, track, weightlifting, lacrosse, and baseball. There were performances from the dance team, dance classes, jazz band, and step team. Even the props were painted by art class students.
There does not seem to be an event in the school quite like it- hence why it is so well attended. The attendees themselves had a zealous, supportive energy one could feel all around the auditorium. Their cheers helped boost the morale of everyone around when in the house or on stage. The show also helped bring recognition to groups branching locally. The fashion show, for example, helped advertise local boutiques and shops around Bradenton and Anna Maria Island. The many generous sponsors were also recognized.
Austin reflects on his experience as a nominee:
“Being one of the Mr. Sugarcane nominees was an unexpected opportunity to branch out and get to know some of the dance team. I particularly enjoyed the car wash we did, which gave me the opportunity to have fun with the boys and the girls of my beautiful high school, wash some good citizens’ motor vehicles, and make jokes such as ‘where my hose at.’ At the show, I loved the catastrophic dance we partook in, and the fashion segments, as well.”
The showcase would not be what it is without its competitive aspect- raising money for the Sugarcanes dance team. In the end, it was Benford who won the title having raised over 4,000 dollars, Zoller was runner up, Talucci was Car Wash MVP, and Papale won Sugarcanes’ Choice.
The showcase was a vivacious, memorable night for participants and audience members alike, so it is no wonder why it is so popular. Anyone debating attending next year has no reason not to- it is great for school spirit. The inclusion across multiple departments sets the event apart, and these types of collaborations are a key factor in keeping the arts departments alive.
