Performance in Columbus Circle (June 23, 2007)

By Soin Alexander

The day that the New Jersey WAIT members performed in New York City turned out to be one of the most interesting experiences that we’ve ever had. Our performance took place at Columbus Circle of Central Park in front of a fountain. It was on a sunny, Saturday afternoon, and the park was packed and busy, but what else can you say about New York City?

When we first arrived, Eun Hwa Mouada declared we should start setting up. This has greatly proven that the members have started to take ownership for their responsibility. As we were getting started, we noticed that there were two other performances happening around us: a group of breakers called the Transformers were performing on the other side of the fountain, and a bunch of hip-hop rap singers were right next to us. Eun Hwa, going up to them with great determination, bravely asked the hip-hop dancers to move when they’re finished.

We began the performance with some uplifting acts such as the dance A Rose is Still a Rose, then the song Wait for Me, which was sung by Hanna Hendricks, Julie Owens, Eun Hwa Mouada, Sara Roghanian and Karina Carmichael. We then performed One Girl Revolution, Hero, and finally Beauty From Pain sung by Karin Carmichael. While not performing, the other NJ WAIT members went around handing out pamphlets and receiving donations. Although our sound system wasn’t so loud and was hard to hear, the audience enjoyed our performance and appreciated WAIT’s purpose. The final act was also a glorifying achievement; by inviting audience members of all ages and with different talents to come up, we were able to reach out to the people. We also should thank the Transformers who let us use their sound system for Rose is Still a Rose.

Afterwards, Mrs. Santiago invited the NJ WAIT team members to her house to party. We ate some yummy dinner and sang karaoke as we chatted away about our summer holiday.