The auditorium lights darken, the curtains open, and lights shine on the stage, illuminating Tristan Massey, senior. Massey is singing “Feeling Good” by Michael Buble, and as they perform, they have absolute command of the crowd’s attention. They finish the song with a low note, and the audience erupts in applause.

“It was a lot of fun,” said Massey. “It was great feeling the love of the crowd.”

The annual Homecoming Talent Show, this year titled the “Galactic Showcase,” was organized by the sophomore representatives in the student government. Sophomores Yasemin Quesada and Eric Stack-Thomas presented the acts.

“I really did enjoy [hosting]. It was definitely stressful at times,” said Stack-Thomas. “But overall, I in no way regret it and I’m very glad I was given the opportunity.”

Another valuable part of the talent show operations were the technicians. Experienced sound technician Tsunade Lavinier, senior, felt that this year’s show was a standout among the many talent shows Oviedo has held.

“It was better than past shows,” said Lavinier. “The acts were more creative, loud, and out there.”

Even attendees of the show thought it went off without a hitch. The spectators were able to enjoy the admirable and distinctive performances, with each act setting a totally different mood. This is due to the large variety of talents, from comedic dance acts to classical piano pieces and everything in between.

“[The show] was awesome,” said sophomore Emily Kee. “The acts were very good this year… they were really talented.”

There were 16 acts and 36 total students performing. However, the talent show didn’t just showcase performing arts talents. There were nine 2D Art entries and nine 3D Art entries, with audience members voting before the show began.

The winner of the 2D Art category was senior Riley Nieves for their piece, Chloe. Adam Ibrahim, junior, won in the 3D Art category with their piece, Fruit Bowl.

The Audience’s Choice Award, which was determined by audience votes on a Google Form, was won by seniors Isaiah Guthrie-Stringer and Caden Martz for their performance of their original song, “Confused”. Finally, the Finlawgs won the Judge’s Choice Award for their performance of “Basket Case” by Green Day.

The Finlawgs are a band composed of three seniors, singer Tristan Amstadt, electric guitarist Owen Sommerfeldt, drummer Lucas Boyer, and freshman Elliot Boyer, the group’s bass guitarist. They started getting ready for the talent show towards the end of the summer, practicing two times a week until the big day. In the time leading up to the show, they ramped up their practice to prepare.

“I’m stoked [about winning],” said Amstadt. “[Performing] was nerve-wracking, but after we got into the groove it was chill.”

The 2024 Galactic Showcase talent show allowed Lions the fun and open space to demonstrate skills they’re passionate about outside of a strictly academic setting. Their joy was evident and contagious, leading to a memorable night for participants and attendees alike.