Last Wednesday, the Wortham Center for the Performing Arts came alive with the glowing faces of high school students from six Buncombe County High Schools. After weeks of delays caused by Hurricane Helene and inclement weather, the highly anticipated event finally took place, offering students the chance to showcase their musical talents in front of an enthusiastic audience of principals, choral instructors, family members, and friends.
The evening featured a performance led by guest clinician Dr. Jason Dungee of UNC Charlotte, who guided the students in singing five songs, each marked by its own distinct sound and artistic vision. Students selected for the showcase earned their spots through auditions held by their respective choral instructors, making participation in the event a significant accomplishment.
The performance represented a harmonious collaboration between Enka, Erwin, North Buncombe, Owen, A.C. Reynolds, and T.C. Roberson high schools, with singers uniting their voices in a celebration of talent and dedication. Families and community members filled the theater, applauding the students’ efforts and the resilience they demonstrated in bringing their art to life after the weather-related setbacks.
As the final notes resonated through the Wortham Center, the audience rose in a standing ovation, closing a memorable night that underscored the unifying power of music and the importance of community support in the arts.