It was a full house at Valparaiso High School (VHS) on Monday evening, as the school hosted the 36th annual rendition of “This Is Our Story.” Spread across two nights – the tradition sees over 1000 students from across Valparaiso Community Schools show off their talents in the arts, and ring in the holiday season with a huge set list of Christmas music.
The night began with the VHS Jazz Ensemble performing a prelude of holiday music, and caroling by the VHS Varsity singers as attendees toured a gallery of art created by students across the school district. Artists from elementary schools all the way up to VHS displayed their works – ranging from portraits, landscapes, to more abstract pieces and beyond. With the effort of the effort of so many students on display, “This Is Our Story” is always more than just a concert.
“I’m so excited to see so many students involved in music and the visual arts, and seeing so many families come out here to show their support is amazing,” said Miguel Rosario-Vega, Music Department and Director of Bands at VHS. “The kids have done wonderful work in the classroom. It's been a lot of fun. This is about the biggest crowd we have had all year.”
Parents, other family members, and friends packed the VHS gym wall to wall, pointing to their students, snapping pictures, and recording videos. VHS Senior Sydney Brown is no stranger to the event – but the crowd still manages to surprise her.
“It’s kind of terrifying, but you do get used to it,” she said. “It’s just been a lot of fun getting to play really awesome music with some really great people. I’m kind of sad that I won’t be able to do this again next year.”
The set list features each schools’ orchestras, choirs, and bands performing multiple pieces. Gospel-like hymns to rocking renditions of holiday classics, “This is Our Story” offered a wide tour of genres.
“It feels nice to see it all come together like this,” said VHS Senior Michael Stewart. "Practice can get a little repetitive, but it’s great to be out here performing just great, great music. You feel a little nervous when you see the crowd, but once they start playing and the adrenaline gets pumping, all of that goes away and you just want to play to the best of your ability.
The visual arts also captured attendees' attention, with many pausing to take closer looks at the rows and rows of works on display.
“It’s a combination of the performing and visual arts. We get to do outreach with the community and get together right in time for the holidays,” said Audrey Rucklos, art teacher at Heavilin Elementary School. “It’s a good way to showcase what Valpo’s been up to so far this year. It's supporting the Department of the Arts all the way down.”
“This Is Our Story” continues on Tuesday, December 5 at VHS. The concert starts at 7 p.m., with the VHS Jazz Band and VHS Varsity Singers starting early at 6:30 p.m.