Great competition, I was really impressed. Very nice high school, friendly volunteers, and organized layout. Here's my critique of the finalists.
Avon - Congrats on finals, I could tell you were excited to make it! Your boys were my favorite part of your show, they SOLD their number and had the audience pumped. My central concern is that your show began very serious in regards to facials and choreo with the Evanescence number, then became fun again, then got serious with your ballad, and was fun until the end. I'd avoid such a drastic change throughout.
Warren Central - Honestly, you blew me away with your performance. You left your heart on that stage and you should be proud of some extremely talented performers you have. The ballad was very long, but otherwise I was impressed. Your energy and heart overshadowed any pitchy notes or choreo mistakes. I'm a huge fan after seeing you.
North Central - Your theme was fantastic, and the costumes and staging in the first half of your show were flawless. Your ballad had amazing dynamics and vocal talent, as I expected from you. The second half of your show did not connect with the first, and placing a well-known current song as your closer did not mesh with the first half. My favorite number was your three talented singers after the ballad; I understand why two of them were given awards in the solo competition. Great job, you three.
Franklin Central - You brought it at this competition, and I knew you would be very close to WV after seeing you perform (something I did not expect before seeing you). Your arranger is unbelievable, some of the best arrangements I've ever heard. Your ballad had me teared up; I wasn't happy to hear the first few chords of 'Defying Gravity' as I have seen it butchered throughout the seasons, but wow. The soloist and the performance you gave made this the best ballad I have seen live. I can't say enough about how impressive you were to me; very clean choreo, classic costuming, overall a great show. I expect a great season.
Waubonsie Valley - I was honored to see you live for the first time, and I have to say that your vocals are absolutely glorious. From start to finish, you had the strongest and most balanced, well-executed choir vocals. Your final chord in your closer gave me chills; the fact that you could produce such sound after a tiring show was astounding. Congrats on a win.
HUGE Congrats to Bishop Dwenger!! Our first Grand Champion win! PLUS, best vocals and best visuals. You guys rocked small mixed. Tears in our eyes and pride in our hearts. We are so proud of you!
Noteables and Intuition are getting ready and can't wait to get to Ben Davis! We'll be there soon; can't wait to start watching some great Indiana groups. It'll be the first time I've seen an Indiana group in Indianan (I've seen Center Grove and Edgewood at Danville the past couple years).
Ben Davis Giant Spectacular 2011
