The annual Stomp Out Cancer show lit up Nissan Auditorium on Oct. 18 with performances from the MSMS Indian Cultural Association, Fashion Board, Blu Knightz and Blu Diamondz under the guidance of Goen Hall Director LaToya Bledsoe to raise awareness for cancer.
The MSMS Fashion Board blended style and advocacy, strutting the runway in creative looks inspired by cancer awareness themes.
Seniors Brayden Smith and Jolanna Jackson worked to bring the Fashion Board together. Smith said they prepared for the performance by practicing and trying different looks.
“We just worked until it made sense,” Smith said. “[Jackson] was the choreographer, and we just ran through it and added things as we went.”
Smith said it meant a lot to the Fashion Board to not only show off one of their passions but also bring awareness to such an important cause as cancer.
“It felt amazing,” Smith said. “I really did enjoy showcasing not only our artistic ability through our outfits but also being able to have a meaningful impact. Just walking on stage was very enjoyable.”
Next, ICA delivered a dance performance. The routine highlighted the unity of cultural pride and collective support for those affected by cancer.
Junior Heer Patel said ICA worked hard to prepare for the show in the weeks prior.
“We practiced at least twice a week for about three weeks, usually from 9-10:15 p.m. in the W [Room] alongside the step teams,” she said. “Our vision was to share a culture with MSMS and have fun while doing it. We aimed to express ourselves in creative ways while honoring breast cancer awareness.”
Closing out the night, the Blu Knightz and Blu Diamondz took the stage with their step routines. To prepare for their performance, the groups practiced extensively.
“We practiced daily for three weeks leading up to the show, doing run-through after run-through,” Smith said. “We brought awareness to specifically breast cancer through our pink accents on our step outfits and the chants throughout our steps.”
Junior Tejasvi Uppu said the best part of the show was the sense of community it created.
“It was really fun just being able to connect with everyone, and I feel like it brought us all together,” Uppu said.
