Davies’ Hall was filled with inspiration and the smell of hot chocolate when students performed at the Coffeehouse event. With a variety of performances, this event got attention from more than fifty people, including faculty and students.

Senior Elizabeth Townsend, and upper and middle school teacher, Nancy Totten, organized the event, which took place on Thursday, February 5. Students got the chance to perform and express themselves through the arts. Others could come and spend time with their classmates while listening to the fantastic performances.

“It brings courage to the people who were presenting, and it’s a really nice atmosphere for people to go hang out,” 9th grader, Jude Carver-Kay said regarding the environment of the Coffeehouse.

Students from all grades performed, and some of which were the organizers of the event, including Townsend. Even the locally renowned band The District performed multiple arrangements.

“A lot of people at WIS have hidden talents, and this was a good way for them to showcase it,” 10th grader Leonardo Proano said.

According to Townsend, this was the first ever Coffeehouse event the school has ever organized, receiving positive feedback. Carver-Kay said, “The event was managed by students and it was well moderated.”

The lights in Davies’ Hall were dimmed, but soft Christmas lights were hung around the room, creating a more relaxing setting. The audience and performers could also get hot drinks, water, and various snacks to munch on while watching the other performers.

“It wasn’t as awkward and tense as performances that I’ve seen have been in the past,” Proano said. “It was calm and relaxed and mellow… like a Coffeehouse.”

Students are hoping that events like this are organized more often because not only do students get to perform in a more calm environment, but the audience also enjoys different types of performances.

“It’s cool to see different styles of art as well as art forms from different nations,” 9th grader Jair Alleyne said.

Next year, WIS is hoping to arrange a Coffeehouse that is recognized even more than this year’s event. Although the main organizer, Townsend, will be graduating in June, other students are sure to put another Coffeehouse together.

Students from the whole Upper School witnessed a fantastic and unique occasion that was “a very interesting experience and a nice way to showcase what the students are passionate about,” Alleyne said.

 By Lorenzo Proano