The Other Side

The Waukee vocal music program has always been held to a standard of high excellence, which directly correlates to the success of its show choir. This year’s Millennium is composed of 53 singers and dancers. The show begins with a mashup of “The Other Side” by Justin Paul and “Cross the Line” by Lin-Manuel Miranda, featuring a duet by Tanner Lehtinen and Liv Simons. This transitions to “Pure Imagination” by Gene Wilder, with a solo from Tanner Lehtinen. Next is “Turn the Lights Off” by Tally Hall, featuring a solo from Liv Simons. Following that is the ballad “Should I Stay or Should I Go” by The Clash. Finally, the show concludes with a mashup of “Room Where It Happens” by Lin-Manuel Miranda and “Break on Through” by The Doors, highlighted by a quintet featuring Adam Mabuce, Lucy Matlock, Ella Stobbe, Valdon Bross, and Rain Hall.

This year’s Millennium is special, not only because it is the 2nd group of seniors to come through show choir after the split of Waukee, but also because it is the first Millennium to have an actual theme, using the Door to signify “The Other Side”. Senior Colin Gach, who has been on varsity throughout his entire high school career said, “This show is very different from others because there is a clear story whereas in the past we have just done songs without a theme”. This change from last year where there was somewhat of a storyline is massive, using a prop throughout the show and a light system to capture emotion.”

With the addition of a set storyline this year, there are mixed emotions that come with it, sophomore Ashlyn Stadtlander said, “I really think it depends on the judges and their opinions, if they understand it then I feel like it’s going to be really good, but if they don’t understand it though I think that can hurt the score of the show.” Another opinion on the show, coming from junior Siri Barlow said, “I think it’s really cool to be the first group to do a show like this and it’s been entertaining to watch the show come together.” Because of the change from past shows, many people think this will be the best Millennium ever.