Students piled into the Berrie Center on Sunday night to support the Café Sharp performances. Rows of students and performers filled the seats in Sharp Theater waiting to see the different acts performed by Ramapo students. Sunday night's theme was "oldies but goodies."
"Themes are a new twist this semester," said sophomore Warren Dolan. "It is fun to mix it up."
Café Sharp is organized by Alpha Psi Omega, the theater honor society, and gives students the chance to perform in a friendly open-mic setting. Café Sharp is open to all different talents, whether it is singing, dancing, comedy or musical theater.
"Open mic night is centered around theater, but it is open to anyone who wants to come and perform," said junior publicist of AYO Ryan McGilloway. "We have regular performers that come and newcomers that come all the time."
The most popular performances of the night were musical. Many of the students expressed themselves through music, whether it be singing or playing an instrument.
Café Sharp is a great opportunity for students because it gives them experience in front of an audience.
"I love doing stuff like this on campus; it's a place to perform with no pressure," freshman Nick D'Ambrosia said.
D'Ambrosia, who was accompanied on stage by friend Christina, put on one of the most well-received performances of the night.
"The theme is 'oldies but goodies,' so my friend Christina and I decided we wanted to do a Disney song, but couldn't decide which one. So we decided let's just go through the ages, Disney through the years." said D'Ambrosia "We are starting from the beginning and going up to the most recent."
The duet combined a total of 28 Disney songs into their performance, which had everyone engaged.
Besides D'Ambrosia's duet performance, there were several musical numbers, some of which were accompanied by instruments. Some students even took the opportunity to play their own original songs, like Alexander Hoteck. Not only did he play an original song with his electric keyboard, but he also played an oldie song, "Hit the Road Jack" by Ray Charles, and got the audience involved with finger snapping during his performance.
Regardless of major or performance style, Café Sharp is a great way to showcase your talent.
"It's a cool way for everyone to relax in a friendly environment." said sophomore Warren Dolan. "We all just support each other."
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jrinzuel@ramapo.edu
