Saturday, January 17, 2026 at 7:30 p.m.
Armstrong Concert Hall
Shenandoah Conservatory

Harmony • All the Georges • Rock 'n' Roll

We received three prompts at the beginning of this project: “harmony,” “rock 'n' roll” and “All the Georges.” We were also given a percussion instrument at random to incorporate into our performance somehow. Harmony is easy enough to incorporate in this project — you will hear it throughout just about every part of this performance. Rock and roll was also simple, and we incorporated a few rock artists into our performance. For the last prompt, All the Georges, we decided to incorporate it by only using music by or about a George. You will meet several famous Georges throughout this performance, and we hope you enjoy!

Gwendolyn Ryan, flute, piccolo
Elijah Phillips, baritone
Eleanor Choe, guitar
Tyson Wright, guitars
Donovan McLean, composer, percussion, piano

Without Color • Tiny Bubbles Popping • Seasons of Shenandoah

Our prompts were “without color,” “tiny bubbles popping,” and “seasons of Shenandoah.” With these we took inspiration from how life has ups and downs; we can lose our color, but when we allow each other a moment, sparks of connection are born. It’s a testament to giving space to trust again and finding peace beyond our struggles. It’s a movement based piece with a variety of musical elements included.

Valeria Perero Santa Cruz, composer, actor
Alice McNutt, composer, actor
Amanda Santana, voice
Lucas Weber, sound 
Emma Rentschler, actor

Searching • Swervy Curvy Rhinoceros • Thriller

Looking for a through-line for the prompts “Searching,” “Swervy Curvy Rhinoserous,” and “Thriller,” we workshopped ideas for an hour before settling on something that spoke to us all. We put together a thriller/comedy skit exploring five basic archetypal characters who undergo impossible challenges while stranded in the jungle. In search of food and a swervy curvy rhinoserous, they fight paranoia, the jungle, and each other.

Ashton Couper, actor
Eden Rubsamen, actor
Michael Clay Jr., actor
I'ami Argueta, actor
Jake Tuttle, cello, actor
Blake Barnickel, button presser

Common Tongue • Retro Disco • Arsenic & Cheap Dinner

Using the prompts “Common Tongue,” “Arsenic and cheap dinner” and “Retro Disco” the group explores how we put off our disappointment and anxieties in our day to day lives. Using music and acting, the group explores the disappointment, frustration and anxiety that comes from putting off so much. Common tongue is not only found in the music we play but the common phrases we use in our day to day lives.

Colton Leverett, bass clarinet, percussion
Katelyn Young, bassoon, percussion
Allison Kite, clarinet, percussion
Blake Dodson, tuba, percussion
Sofi Hemmens, actor

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Wheelchair accessible restrooms are available across the courtyard in Gregory Hall (approximately 100 feet from the Armstrong Concert Hall lobby). Please notify house management for assistance.

Patrons are requested to silence cell phones and other electronic devices during performances. The taking of photographs and the use of recording equipment are not permitted during performances.

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Some performances at Shenandoah Conservatory of Shenandoah University feature digital scores accessed through nkoda, the world’s premier digital sheet music platform. Visit nkoda.com to learn more.