West Marion High School show choir "New Era" closed out its competition season on Saturday by capping off a historic season with a first-place finish at the Gulf Coast Classic at Biloxi High School.
New Era earned Best Visuals as well as taking home the top spot in the Small Mixed Division.
"I am very sad that show choir is coming to an end,” New Era’s lone senior, Carleigh Thornhill said. “This was my very last performance with this amazing group, and being in this group for six years has truly been a roller coaster. When I joined show choir six years ago, I was scared because I didn’t know anyone. But after stepping out of my shell, I grew to love every single member who has graduated and everyone who has joined along the way. I am so proud of this group because we have been through ups and downs, yet we have continued to work hard and build this group into what it is today.
“I am so happy with how far we have come and excited for the next steps that Mr. Bullock is going to take this group. I know I wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for the amazing people in this program and, of course, my director. I am going to miss my girls who have been with me since my second year — Holly, Mattie and Jaelyn. I encourage everyone to at least get a taste of the show choir world because you could be like me — and it might just change your life."
With the final victory, New Era completed the first undefeated competition season in the program’s history, winning all seven competitions they entered this year. At each event throughout the season, the ensemble also captured one, two or all three caption awards, recognizing excellence in vocals, visuals and overall show design.
“Going undefeated in anything is a very difficult thing to do,” Director Jon Bullock said. “This is a testament to the kids and their hard work and also to the parents who support this program every step of the way.”
Individual recognition also highlighted the group’s success. Haylie Smith was honored with the Best Solo Within a Show award — her second time earning the distinction this season.
Prior to its final competition, New Era competed in the Petal Show Choir Invitational Feb. 21, delivering a performance that earned Best Vocals, Best Show Design and first place in the Small Mixed Division.
The momentum continued on Feb. 28 at Oak Grove High School during the Magnolia Show Choir Invitational. Once again, New Era brought home Best Vocals and another first-place finish in the Small Mixed Division.
New member and seventh-grader Kassidy Parker described her first year in the program as both challenging and rewarding.
“My first year in show choir was a roller coaster of emotions that challenged me more than I expected,” Parker said, “but it helped me grow in confidence and made me fall in love with performing.”
For many in the group, the undefeated season represents the result of months of intense rehearsal, discipline and teamwork. Eighth-grader Leighanna Turnage emphasized that what audiences see on stage is only a small part of the effort behind the scenes.
“It’s amazing how people think this is just singing and dancing,” Turnage said. “They don’t understand the work and dedication it takes to get to this point and how important it is to the team.”
While the competitive season may be over, New Era is far from finished. After spring break, the ensemble will begin preparations for its annual Spring Show, which will take place later in the semester on the West Marion campus.
