By Brianna HolcombASSISTANT ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR
Hofstra Gospel Ensemble, Imani, Hofstra Dance Team, student acts and many more all came together on Nov. 20 to participate in the Black Student Union’s (BSU) Unity Showcase. Students and family members gathered in the Student Center Theater to watch a large array of student acts from singing to dancing and everything in between.
The theater was packed as Free, past host of BET 106 & Park, and RIP Michaels, comedian and cast member of “Wild n’ Out,” took to the stage. The two hosts kicked off the show with a few jokes before introducing the first act of the night. They kept the show rolling with jokes and entertained every member of the audience throughout the night.
The Unity Showcase featured acts from Hofstra’s various a cappella groups such as Makin’ Treble, Sigma ‘Cappella and Hofbeats. Each group performed various numbers including popular songs such as “Bang Bang” by Jessie J, featuring Ariana Grande and Nicki Minaj.
As each group performed the crowd cheered them on and even joined in as they went through their various numbers.
The show not only had singing, but contained stepping and dancing as well. Hofstra’s step team, Strictly Steppin’, took to the stage with an amazing step performance. Their synchronized steps and arm movements depicted a group that worked very hard on their performance almost moving and sounding as one.
The Hofstra Dance team performed three numbers that showed their dance skills as well as their flexibility. They proved why they are three-time champions with their routine.
To continue the diverse acts, Spit, the poetry club on campus performed. The group entertained the crowd with a powerful poem from three of the members about women’s role in society, earning snaps from the male audience members as well.
The show not only included acts from Hofstra’s various clubs, but acts from Hofstra students as well. Nandee Mignon took to the stage singing Musiq Soulchild’s song “Love,” and even surprising audience members with a guest performer. Singing is not the only talent Hofstra student’s have as Perk Banks gave an energetic rap performance, utilizing all of the theater to involve the audience members.
Freshman Tai Davis thought the show was entertaining and different from other showcases. “It had a lot of diversity and overall well put together,” he said.
In total, the show was a memorable night for participants and audience members alike. Laury Saunders, senior and BSU president said, “[The] main goal for the Unity Showcase is to present all the different talents there are at Hofstra and also bring them together. It is also important to educate the new members of the Hofstra community about the different clubs here on campus.”