By Armita Rohani
On Friday, November 3rd, the East Side News hosted its very first Coffeehouse of the year–and the first ever without the pit. The night’s theme was Italian Night. Much like last year’s Asian Fusion Night, Italian Night featured Italian dishes, especially pasta. Combined with a casual open mic starring an arrangement of acts, the night was fun, laid-back, and a great kickoff to November.
With help from Stage Crew and the amazing Mr. McCluskey and Mr. Huber, the editors and some writers from the East Side News helped set the scene for the night. Tables were set, candles sorted out, food arranged, and the stage–albeit painfully–set up. Spaghetti, penne, fettucini, and lasagna were put on heat trays, marinara, parmesan, alfredo and pesto were warmed up in pots, coffee brewed until it was scorching hot, and the smell of cannoli, pizelles, breadsticks, brownies, and cookies filled the Commons.
The main feature–although the food was delicious and practically to die for—was the open mic; dozens of acts filled the list to the brim for the night. Whether it was Enigmous B performing one of their classics or groups singing movie music hits, dancing on the stage, or coming up with their acts last minute and doing “something” or “Lord knows what,” the night was far from dull and everyone had a great time. Senior Khatami Syahrul says, “[It] was a blast to see people sing and perform! Also the food was so yummy and I loved the fettuccine alfredo.”
The attendees and those who worked the Coffeehouse also had good things to say. Freshman Glenda Mauro says, “It was my first time at a Coffeehouse and honestly, it was really good. The food was good, I felt comfortable, it was funny, and there were a lot of talented people [performing]… I will definitely go next time!” One of the Masters of Ceremony (MC’s), Natalie May, also says, “It was a very fun night with all the different acts to watch. And the food was delicious. The Olive Garden breadsticks were the best.” Coffeehouse is an amazing way for people to get together, have fun, and eat some really good–and pretty cheap–food. It is one of newspaper club’s greatest achievements and has been around for over a decade. With or without the pit, Coffeehouse is still the same, good ol’ Coffeehouse that students love.
There will be two more Coffeehouses in the coming year, one in January and the other in May or June. Stay tuned for what is to come, and feel free to come in and enjoy some bagels during newspaper club meetings, every Wednesday after school.
