W.I.S.T. TIMES Christmas talent show gives students time to shine

By Sydney Hsieh Graphic Editor

In place of the annual Christmas party, the Student Council held a talent show in the school gymnasium on December 30. Over three periods in the afternoon, students and teachers volunteered to perform songs and demonstrations for each other’s enjoyment. The end-of-the-year event combined celebrations for both Christmas and New Year’s.

“The talent show offered me a moment to shine for once,” said Bryan Chen, Grade 10. “As a drum player in the band, I could finally bring my years of practice to the stage.”

A total of twelve groups performed at the talent show with a wide variety of skills on display. From flute-playing to pop dancing to singing, the talent show offered a platform for students to showcase their unique interests.

“It was enjoyable to watch all of the performances,” said David Hsieh, Grade 7. “I was extremely impressed by Jasper Chou from 8-1’s solo dance performance. I have never seen anyone dance like that before.”

The talent show was held during school hours in response to the school’s continued COVID-19 restrictions. Due to the school’s measures prohibiting buffet service as part of a Christmas party, the Student Council opted to organize a talent show. In addition to the difficulties in complying with COVID-19 policies, the Student Council also faced parental concerns over students staying up late and needing transportation afterwards.

“We were only able to host the talent show after negotiations and constant adjustments in response to both COVID-19 precautions as well as parental concerns,” said Lillian Hsu, Student Council Vice President. “In the end, we were happy that the event worked out and that the students celebrated Christmas and New Year’s with us.”

In addition to the Christmas-themed event, the Student Council hosted lottery raffles in between performances. Everyone in the school obtained numbered tickets beforehand, and 46 winners in total were drawn at random by performers on stage. The Christmas prizes included an Apple Home-

Pods Mini, Starbucks coffee mugs, free drinks and movie tickets.

“It was enjoyable to watch all of the performances,” said Hamilton Huang, Grade 12. “But I was also excited when I learned that I won an Apple HomePods Mini as part of the lottery. Including entertaining lottery games added a surprise element that made the students more than content with the event.”