By Sherry Dong (283) and Koleona Chrek (283)

As the 2023 year came to a close, a total of ten groups of teachers performed at the annual Central’s Got Talent. According to Mr. Horwits (251), the creator of this tradition, “Central’s Got Talent is a senior-only event where teachers perform various talents, similar to America’s Got Talent.” Teachers take center stage as students judge the contestants’ performance. These stages reveal a new, exciting side of each teacher that a student would not typically see in the classroom. 

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As the crowd settled down, lights closed over the auditorium. Hosts Ashfin Rasham (283) and Jennifer Kieta (283) introduced the senior-class judges. Special guest Judge Allan Page, former pro-NFL player and Minnesota Supreme Court justice, came to support the event and commenced the show with his rendition of the Star-Spangled Banner and Lift Every Voice and Sing, setting up a musical atmosphere for the upcoming performances. 

In a lively morning filled with diverse performances, the audience was treated to an array of talents, ranging from dance routines to piano mastery and even an intense rap battle.

Mr. Nadel, a masterful pianist, gave a stellar performance that left the audience enthralled with his harmonious fusion of different musical styles, weaving the familiar tunes like “A Whole New World” and “Silent Night,” creating an artistic masterpiece that captivated the crowd. Akinseye Quinones (283), who was part of the audience, gushes, “[the] most underrated act was Mr. Nadel on the piano—so fire!” Mr. Nadel not only showcased his own musical virtuosity but also set the bar high for the subsequent acts.

Mr. Grow’s performance was more than just a musical act; it was a heartfelt dedication to his significant other, accompanied by groovy footwork that added a touch of flair to the stage. Una Liu (283) praised the performance, noting that Mr. Grow “seemed like he was having a lot of fun.” Anthony Danh (283) echoed this sentiment, saying, “I liked the message conveyed and the selection of the song.” His talent left several people surprised. Emily Vu (283), Student Association President, commends his performance: “he was on beat the whole time!” 

Coming out next were counselors, Ms. Hart and Ms. Sharp, showcasing their skills in a fun dance routine led by Host Keita. Having a host dance alongside them surprised and uplifted the entire crowd, creating an entirely new ambiance. Its lighthearted presence was a break from the more emotional acts. “[The performance] made me smile,” Amy Liao (283) says, “It was fun and energetic.”

The rap battle between Mr. Humes and Mr. Neuman, featuring the Gettysburg Address and Abraham Lincoln, faced an issue when the microphones malfunctioned. They fumbled on stage, only reading off their script. Jenny Loo (283), a discerning judge, expressed her disappointment, saying, “I thought the rap battle with Mr. Humes and [Mr. Neuman] was not that good. I feel like I couldn’t hear [them]. Personally, I gave one of the lowest scores, but I feel like if I could hear them a little better, I would’ve given them a higher score.” The audience, though disappointed, appreciated their efforts.

Mr. Bezanis and Mrs. Peeples performed a skit, roleplaying Henry the Eighth and the executioner, respectively, while lacing in commentary pertaining to the mental anguish of Central students. They presented themselves in costume and broke the fourth wall by cracking jokes with the audience. While some students were able to catch their clever puns and laugh, many of the witty jokes went over the students’ heads. Despite their robust execution, they received low scores. Parker Coakley (283) lamented their score, “Mrs. Peeples and Mr. Bezanis scored too low.” 

Mr. Hoover recited “Invictus” by William Ernest Henley, a poem about courage in the face of death or other challenges. While it was an inspiring piece, students like Nabilah Jerin (283) felt it fell short of creative expectations. “I’m sorry, but Mr. Hover definitely doesn’t deserve having 30+ points—he just recited a poem.” 

Ms. Chrissis showcased a gymnastic routine, leaving Liao (283) surprised. “I enjoyed Ms. Chrissis’s [performance] because I don’t usually see math teachers doing gymnastics. I was impressed.” However, Salmane Larabi (283) was not satisfied, claiming he could also do the same routine, resulting in his underwhelming attempt at a cartwheel.

Next was Mrs. Rendsberg and the PR band. During Mrs. Rendsberg’s performance, the microphone stopped working. But the teacher’s passionate screams during the Nirvana song, drowned by heavy bass and drumming, showcased her resilience. In fact, Jerin’s (283) favorite act was the band, stating how “talented they were.” Despite the microphone malfunction, she felt Mrs. Rendsberg’s dedication, acknowledging her passion, “but she seemed to have a great time!”

Unsurprisingly, after totaling the points, the winner was the 5 PR band, consisting of Mr. Zak, Mr. Martin, Mr. Blazer, Mr. Paul, and Mrs. Rendsberg. Mr. Martin’s performance with the PR band also received praise from the audience. Coakley says, “My favorite performance was any of the [PR] bands’,” a widely agreed-upon sentiment, as the show ended with a standing ovation. 

Despite the mishap with the microphones, “this was a good opportunity for everybody” Loo (283) comments, “to see something different and new.” This event was a team effort. “The 283 Cabinet worked really diligently on this event,” Vu (283) commends. “I want to notice James Waskito (283) and Mr. Horwits (251) who came early to school to finish organizing the event and Stage Crew for being so flexible with their schedules.” As the curtain closes on this extraordinary showcase, the shared efforts and triumphs were a testament to the vibrant and united community Central embodies.