The Michigan City Soul Steppers hosted their 5th annual competition to a crowd of six hundred individuals who enjoyed the talent of twelve hard working drill and drum line teams.
Before the event started, Ricky Wiggins provided music to entertain the audience while performers warmed up on the Michigan City High School’s gym floor. The Hot Boys from Chicago’s Power 92 radio station were also in attendance to MC the event.
Seven judges were present from Michigan City, Iowa, Kansas, and Tennessee. Rochelle Mitchell, Pervis Williams, Robert Wagner, and Sharon Cole assessed the drill teams while Armon Bass, Eugene McGregor, and James Walker evaluated the drum lines.
Prior to the competition starting, all the teams paraded in front of their adoring fans. The camaraderie of whistles and claps followed this preshow and on into the clash of powers showcased. Each troop had 10 minutes to astound the judges.
The teams involved included the Chicago Elite Arts Company, the C.I.A. Drill Team, the Decatur Power Drillers, the Dominating Heavy Hitters, the Gateway High Steppers, the Jazz Steppers, the Missouri Gold Drum Corps, the Mt. Calvery Marching Knights Drill/Dance Team, the New Generation Drill Team, the Pythons Drill Team, the Unlimited Next Level, and of course the Michigan City Soul Steppers.
Lyn Isbell, the organizer of this event and leader of the Soul Steppers, has dedicated her time to competing for eleven years. “With each year that goes by, this competition grows bigger and bigger,” shared Isbell.