Anticipation was building up quickly as the Pep Rally came to a close. People rushed off the bleachers and down to the amphitheater to get front row spots for the infamous Albany High Lipsync competition.
The freshmen class started off with a bang as Oscar Rodriguez put on an undeniably catchy solo act. Typically a group effort, it was surprising to see a one-man performance reminiscent of the early Michael Jackson. Students and staff were equally impressed.
The sophomore class took a contrary direction from last year’s impressive performance. In attempts to poke fun at the class of 2011, they mimicked the class’s opening sequence from the previous year. Unfortunately, their intent was not met and instead, it appeared that they were merely copying the juniors rather than mocking them. The show continued with multiple risqué dance numbers and similar aesthetics to their preceding lipsync.
The juniors showed great improvement from last year’s sloppy, uncoordinated performance. Despite the reference about their favorite girl “Mary Jane” (that did not go unnoticed by students and administration alike and resulted in a 50 point reduction), the overall performance proved to be creative and well executed. Improved transitions and a wider variety of dances (as well as music) were deemed helpful and crucial for placing them second in the standings.
The seniors snagged first with flying colors. It started out with Krista Smithers whose rendition of Napoleon Dynamite’s dance number was hilarious to all onlookers. Franny Ferreira put everyone on their toes in her adrenaline filled act to Chelley’s, “Took the Night”. The seniors continued to amaze when they incorporated Mr. Kagawa, who participated in the aptly named song, “My Dougie.” This brought Ned Purdom and other faculty to reminisce on the old tradition of having Doug Kagawa a yearly part of the event. Lipsync was concluded by Cristy Petersen, who gave an electric performance equipped with an original rap, and a beat produced by David Teel.
All in all, every class put their best efforts forward and it was an impressive year despite the restrictions put into effect by faculty.
By Kate Pickering and Josie Kelly
