The third quarter of the school year is notoriously known as the busiest. As winter begins to thaw into spring, we are reminded that the year is coming to a close, finals are drawing near, and for us seniors, graduation is becoming all too pressing a reality. Luckily, however, this quarter also holds many exciting events to lift our spirits. No matter what your artistic interest may be, third quarter is always jam-packed with performances and school events.

February opened this year, as it has for the past several years, with the Black Excellence Show. A favorite performance among many students, the show this year had a wide variety of art styles, including monologues, songs, dances and poetry. Music for the show was done by the House Band.

“I thought it was a beautiful culmination of student efforts and black excellence,” says BSU adviser, Mx. Shehan. The Black Excellence Show took donations for the BSU’s Little Free Library project, amassing donations for both the libraries in Bethlehem and Allentown. The show was incredibly moving both for the audience and for all of the students involved.

As a nice closing to February, this quarter also held the Winter Ball. The all-school dance was a popular event as always. This year’s theme for the winter ball was the MET Gala. Students came in their most MET gala-esque outfits and enjoyed a night of music, food and of course, dancing.

Our third quarter also included another of the school’s most popular performances: the school musical! This year, Charter Arts put on “MAMMA MIA!” The show ran March 16-19 and 24-25th and completely sold out all performances. “MAMMA MIA!” was directed by theater teacher Ashley Weller, and the beautiful set was designed by the Charter Arts Production Arts major. Students put on an amazing performance of this fan-favorite musical, with all of its classic thrills. Big dance numbers, iconic music and beloved characters were brought to life on stage, showcasing the talent of everyone involved.

Charter Arts has several performances to look forward to in the upcoming weeks. Among these are the Literary Arts Greater Lehigh Valley Film Festival April 1 and the Young Choreographers in Concert dancer showcase April 15 and 16. Students have already begun work on these projects and are preparing for final showcases.

And of course, we all need some time to relax eventually, and spring break is just around the corner. Students will have the opportunity to go home, spend time with friends and family, and recharge their artistic and academic batteries for this final stretch of the school year.

The year truly has gone by so fast, and while yes, we are all excited for summer, we will be savoring this final quarter as well.