St. Cloud High School’s Performing Arts Department wowed sold-out audiences on this past weekend with its stunning winter showcase, “A Night in December.” Held at the Susan E. Hill Performing Arts Center, this annual celebration of music and dance highlighted the extraordinary talents of the school’s students while paying tribute to the unwavering dedication and passion of its fine arts departments.
From start to finish, “A Night in December” was a true showcase of the artistry, talent, and dedication of St. Cloud High School’s performers. The program seamlessly blended classic holiday songs with intricate dance routines, captivating the audience at every turn. Standout moments included the SCHS Choral Program’s enchanting rendition of “Silent Night,” the Percussion Ensemble’s lively performance of “Jingle Jazz,” and the Honors Dance Program’s mesmerizing interpretation of “The Nutcracker Suite.” As for student vocal performances, St. Cloud High School sets the standard, a testament to the exceptional talent, guidance, and unwavering passion of their instructor, Tammie Combs.
The St. Cloud Jazz Band brought Act One to a thrilling close with upbeat, contemporary renditions of “First Funky Noel” and “Swingle Bells,” leaving the audience energized and eager for more.
The Golden Girls Varsity Dance Team captivated the audience with their enchanting performance of “Winter Wonderland,” effortlessly stealing the spotlight. The festive spirit continued as the crowd joined in singing timeless classics like “White Christmas” and “Sleigh Ride,” with the dancers spreading joy and smiles throughout the theater. One of the evening’s most touching moments came with Lucas Mazon’s heartfelt rendition of “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” a performance so moving it left the audience in awe.
Amid the dazzling, professional-level dancing at St. Cloud High School, brought to life under the expert direction of Central Florida choreographer, performer, and educator Shana Burns, one might almost overlook the extraordinary contributions of the St. Cloud Concert Band. Under the skilled leadership of Mindy Curtis, the concert band and jazz band delivered a performance that elevated the evening to new heights of musical excellence, leaving a lasting holiday memories on the audience.
This year’s showcase also served as an opportunity to recognize the invaluable support of community partners such as Osceola Arts, Osceola Magic, and the various SCHS booster clubs, who help make these performances possible. A special thank-you went to the parents, staff, and volunteers who work tirelessly behind the scenes to bring these events to life.
The show concluded with thunderous applause, cementing “A Night in December” as a highlight of the holiday season in St. Cloud and Around Osceola. With its mix of professional-level performances and heartfelt community spirit, this event truly captured the magic of the season.
