by Jessyca Cardinell
Gouverneur High School presented the115th annual Dean Oratoricals in the high school auditorium on the evening of Tuesday, April 17.
Family and community members came in anticipation of seeing the student's hard work unfold into stellar performances.
The Dean Oratoricals are sponsored by The Gouverneur Foundation, Buckets for Bob and including money donated by the Rotary Club and the family of Colleen McCarthy, who was a guidance counselor of the school.
High School students volunteer to be a part of the program and practice and rehearse on their own, while meeting with their advisor for guidance a couple of times.
Mr. Cory Wood, High School Principal, introduced the seven students performing their speaking part this year, along with new advisor of the program Mr. Mike Bason.
Six retired school staff members were placed around the auditorium as the judges for the competition, including Mrs. Nona Hilts, Mr. Frank Palumbo, Ms. Judy Poticher, Mr. Arnie Roberts, Mr. Dale Streeter and Mr. Phil Shatraw.
First up to show off her talent was Katrina Wells with 'A Question of Courage' about young love, giving a taste of seriousness.
Next, Jenneca Cook brought the auditorium to life as she had the audience in stitches with her hilarious rendition of “I Kissed A Boy Once” showing she has what it takes in acting.
Taylor Ormasen portrayed the innocence in tragedy with “Just a Date” which showed her great acting abilities through a horrific drinking and driving accident.
Ebin Salsman gave a serious, yet mysterious performance in “Asylum”.
Javien Spence captivated the audience as he spoke “The Fifties II” as he talked about why the 1950's were the best decade to be alive in.
Katelyn Hughes mastered her performance of “What Are the Chances” depicting young love and betrayal.
Sydney Gale was the last act of the evening, leaving everyone with a good laugh and a sweet craving as she spoke of the wonderful fitness powers of “Dark Chocolate”.
After the performances were complete, it was time for the judges to make their decision on who would hold bragging rights for first, second and third place, along with a monetary award.
During the deliberations, Mr. Victor Correa's Select Strings section entertained the crowd with fantastic performances of songs including Forest Gump feather theme song, Beauty and the Beast Tale as Old as Time and Jurassic Park theme song. The students truly showed how hard they work to ensure they deliver stellar performances.
It was then time to announce the winners, chosen on a variety of skill sets used to execute such outstanding performances.
A total of $700 was awarded. First place honors weren’t to Jenneca Cook, second place to Sydney Gale, and third place to Taylor Ormasen. Fantastic job to all students who participated in this event, as well to Mr. Bason on his first year as advisor.
Ebin Salsman with his dialog of “Asylum” during the 2018 Dean Oratoricals. (photo by Jessyca Cardinell)
Javien Spence shows off his talent with his dialog from “The Fifties II” where he explains why the 1950's were the best decade to be alive. (photo by Jessyca Cardinell)
Katrina Wells gives her performance of “A Question of Courage” during the 2018 Dean Oratoricals. (photo by Jessyca Cardinell)
First Place Winner Jenneca Cook during her hilarious performance of “I Kissed A Boy Once” which left the audience well entertained. (photo by Jessyca Cardinell)
Taylor Ormasen third place winner of the 2018 Dean Oratoricals gives a heart wrenching performance of “Just a Date.” (photo by Jessyca Cardinell)
Katelyn Hughes gives her great performance of “What Are the Chances” explaining the hardships of young love. (photo by Jessyca Cardinell)
Sydney Gale, second place winner of the 2018 Dean Oritoricals, gives her funny rendition of “Dark Chocolate” which she claims gives her the best fitness results. (photo by Jessyca Cardinell)