Looking Ahead to 2012: What's to Come This Spring

It's that time of year again: the time to do away with the old and welcome in the new! Everyone can agree that last semester was a blast – between intense rounds of Laser Swag, brilliant renditions of Little Women, and of course, the crazed excitement for Good Old War and Jack's Mannequin, there was no end to the memorable activities students could've been a part of. But now that leaves the question, what comes next? Just how fun is this new semester going to be? Well, with the help of SAB and the endlessly-talented student body here at Messiah, it's guaranteed this new year won't disappoint.

B-Sides, Lost Films, and Coffeehouse

This spring, B-Sides and Lost Films will remain weekly events and Coffeehouse will remain monthly. As of right now, artists, films, and Coffeehouses have yet to be officially scheduled for the spring, but stay attentive. Names, titles, and dates will be released soon, and this semester we can look forward to the Lost Films being more time-sensitive, highlighting Black History Month and (who could forget?) Valentine's Day.

Art Exhibits

If you've yet to wander down to the basement of Climenhaga, it's definitely worth a trip to see some of the breath-taking talent hidden down there. Head over from now until the 15^th to see the work of Professors Daniel Finch and David Kasparek's Transition/Transmission exhibit. If you miss out on this one, don't fret; there will be another exhibit by Therese Zemlin from January 23^rd through March 9^th, and then the Senior Student Art Show from March 23^rd through April 15^th. Even if you don't consider yourself an art critic, anyone can appreciate the hard work, dedication, and resulting beauty.  Head down and see for yourself!

Student Film Festival

Ever heard of the Student Film Festival? On May 2^nd in Boyer Hall, students have the opportunity to view documentaries, short stories, and a variety of other types of films created by our talented fellow students. If you're interested in submitting a film, keep your eyes open for more information. If you're more interesting in just watching films than in making them, simply mark your calendars.

Cultural Series

This semester, we have (at least) two excellent performances to look forward to. The first, on February 11^th, is True North Brass, one of the world's finest brass ensembles, who will be performing in Hostetter Chapel. The second performance on March 9^th is Michael Cooper: Masked Marvels and Wondertales, a story-telling show with a colorful cast of interesting characters. This performance will be held in Miller auditorium, and both shows come at $23 a ticket.

Theatre Productions

Are you ready for the first production of the new year? The cast and crew of Pippin certainly are. Pippin, a moving tale of self-discovery, will open on February 2^nd.

"Pippin will really challenge the audience; it'll make you think, but you can also get a good laugh out of it," says first year ensemble member Dru Kepner. "It's also a pretty good stress reliever!"

The Senior Showcase this spring, performed by seniors Michael O'Donnell and Molly Mastorovich, is titled "All In the Timing," and will premiere on March 1^st.

Finally, on April 19^th, The Miracle Worker will premiere, which is a profoundly touching play based off of Helen Keller's autobiography. All will be performed in Miller auditorium and ticket prices will be announced soon.

Recitals/Concerts

Through April 28^th there will be a montage of student recitals being performed in Poorman Recital Hall free of charge. Check the times and go see some of Messiah's most musically-inclined students play a variety of instruments. The same goes for concerts—from March 2^nd to May 1^st, every musical group on campus will have a time and date where they will be showcasing their talents for free. Whether you prefer the soulful musings of the Concert Choir, the upbeat jamming of the Jazz Combo, or the graceful chiming of the Handbells Ensemble, there's something for everyone.

Special Events

Lil' Sibs Weekend (February 10^th-12^th) – If you have a younger sibling, you are invited to bring them to campus for a weekend designed just for them. There will be a family film in Parmer as well as family-friendly events and activities hosted by the SAB Special Activities Committee.

Secret Illusion Show (February 29^th) – Many of you may have heard of Dan Eckert, better known as "the magician" on campus. If you've witnessed any of his magic, you know he's no joke; he's an illusionist, a mentalist, and an expert at card tricks. Word on the street is that Dan is performing a secret show this semester.  It is a secret because the magic he will be performing won't be quite as light-hearted as his everyday trickery. To find out more information, you must find someone who is a part of the secret group on Facebook or talk to Dan himself, because this is an invite-only event. If you're a Dan the Magic Man fan, you can check out his personal Facebook page for announcements about upcoming t-shirts/other merchandise sales, new videos, and not-as-secret upcoming shows.