Bright and early on Nov. 3, 2018, the Tiger Singers boarded a bus en route to New York City, where they would try to fit as much as possible into 12 hours.

They arrived in the city and immediately went to their first activity: a session at Camp Broadway. The group was taught the opening number to the Tony Award winning musical Once on This Island, “We Dance.” For an hour they worked with a vocal coach who helped them perfect their rhythm, pitches, and dynamics. “It was so rewarding to learn first-hand from a true Broadway professional,” said sophomore Amelia Reedy.

Next, they were given a couple hours of free time where they could explore the city and do some shopping. Some highlights included Saint Patrick’s Cathedral, the Rink at Rockefeller Center, and the Nintendo store. Then they made their way to Radio City Music Hall, where they were given a tour of the historic building.

During their tour, they were able to sit in on a Rockettes rehearsal for their Christmas Spectacular. The third tour group had the opportunity to see them perform their infamous pratfall, where the dancers slowly fall in a domino-like fashion.

Afterwards, students visited the Top of the Rock, which gave them a chance to take pictures of the city skyline. Then they proceeded to Ellen’s Stardust Diner, where food was served with a side of live performances by the servers. “It was the most amazing time!” said senior Jasmine Meints. “I loved the food and the singing was so good. If I end up going to college in New York, it’s the first place I’m applying.” After dinner, the Singers broke from the itinerary for a surprise: Trianna Owens, a BDHS graduate and freshman at the American Musical Dramatic Academy (AMDA), was waiting for them across the street. She walked around and visited with her old friends until it was time to head to the show.

The Tiger Singers were going to see Once on This Island, a Romeo and Juliet story that tackles the issue of race and wealth divisions in the world with raw emotion and a tropical score. “The show was awesome. They had their own pond ON STAGE!” gushed junior Eliza Moore. “And learning the opening song made it even more special.”

The New York trip, although short, was a wonderful time for all of the students!