By Matt de Simone Contributing Writer
Last Thursday night, James River High School held its 36th Annual “Knight of the Arts.” Although the event originated with the idea of highlighting visual art, it has since evolved into a celebration for all of the artists that call the high school home. “Knight of the Arts” features artists from the following disciplines: visual art, drama, and music. Josh Boblett, an English teacher, served as the master of ceremonies for the entertaining showcase of music, drama, and recognitions.
The program’s first performance featured members of the James River Chorus as they belted out choice cuts from the long running Broadway jukebox musical-turned-box office smash hit, “Mamma Mia!” This medley included favorites like “S.O.S.,” “Take A Chance on Me,” and “Waterloo.” People’s toes were tapping and their hands were clapping as they thanked the ladies for the music.
Next up, students Dani Kefer and Kayla Alford unveiling the newest edition of the school’s printed collection of the arts, “Currents.” Kefer and Alford recognized fellow students and others who supported the magazine’s publication and presented the first copy to Michelle Crook, Botetourt County School Board member and graduate of James River. Following the presentation, the “Knightly” players— James River’s resident thespians— performed a scene from their spring production entitled, “Just Another High School Play.”
A brief intermission gave attendees a chance to observe an art exhibit consisting of art from James River’s art students. Gina Louthan-Stanley, an art teacher, arranged the gallery and sought out former Central Academy Middle School art teacher Mark Woodie to serve as the judge.
“There is a variety of artistic elements that we use in each assignment,” Stanley explained. “This is the outcome of taking that task and conveying it into a visual language.” Thirteen mediums made up the exhibit floor, including drawing, painting, sculpture, photography, pottery, and collage.
Senior Anastasia Meadows won “Best in Show” for a watercolor painting featuring a woman in wolf’s clothing. Meadows also took the honor of “Best Use of a Medium.” Art student Sarah Lucas won “People’s Choice” for her pencil drawing of a tea cup filled with a bag of green tea aptly titled, “Classic Tea.”
The final entertainment of the night came from the James River Chamber Ensemble and the Jazz Ensemble members. Students performed compositions featuring solos and a notable rendition of Tchaikovsky’s “Swan Lake.” The Jazz Ensemble closed out the evening kicking out smooth versions of “The Pink Panther Theme” and “Vehicle,” the classic ’70s hit originally recorded by The Ides of March.
Before the event’s conclusion, Boblett brought Stanley on stage to present Anastasia Meadows and Sarah Lucas with their top prize ribbons to the applause by the James River students, faculty, and community members who were in attendance.
