Better get the autographs now, these Central students are on their way to stardom. This year’s CHS talent show had a little bit of everything, from soloists, to bands, to outrageous comedies. With the two sparkling hosts, April Reed and Chris Miller, to light up the in-between time, there was never dull moment.

The extravaganza kicked off with Mr. Timothy Tate, or maybe it was an imposter, auditioning for American Idol, to the tune of Guns and Roses. That “interesting” performance was soon followed by the appearance of another band featuring Ben Mingle, Abe Seymour, Eli Tomlinson, and Cory Talbot. They played two songs including Never in my Life and by Far Side.

Their appearance was followed by another musical talent. This time though it was a soloist, Angela Dodson singing Bridge over Troubled Water.

Next, another teacher made an appearance on stage. Miss Wilson, or more appropriately named Jimmy Snyder, arrived on stage barefoot and donning a lovely set of her well-known Christmas lights, suspiciously followed by an orange extension cord. “Miss Snyder” introduced us to the famed Cookie Dough Man. The skit that followed was one that left us all rolling in out seat with suppressed, or not so suppressed laughter.

Soon afterwards another soloist entered the stage. Andrea Holsinger gave a heartfelt performance singing Long Time Gone, by the Dixie Chicks. At one point she even had the Audience clapping along. After her rendition, Jessica Wallace and Dempsey Young came on stage and got into position. With miming and music, their skit was like a prayer that had come alive through art.

After the sentimental performance made by Jessica and Dempsey we were forced into another fit of laughter when American Idol’s next contestant, Mr. Schneider, took the stage. To the well none tune of I’m to Sexy for My Shirt, another teacher imposter stripped off their outer dress shirt to reveal large, fake muscles. The dress shirt soon found its way into the crowd of screaming girls in the front row.

Following that “interesting” display was perhaps the emotional highlight of the program, a slide show featuring Jenna Daughenbaugh through the years, accompanied by the voice of Krissa Lingenfelter. The display easily moved those who didn’t know her, just as easily as those who did, to tears. It was a beautiful tribute to a beautiful person.

Next came our only dancer, senior Sarah Hall, doing a flowing dance.

Isn’t it about time for another light hearted skit? I would hope so because that is exactly what we got, this time poking fun at our athletic department. Once again we were left rolling in our seats with laughter at the never ending stream of jokes. Next, Michelle McIntyre walked on stage to the sounds of cheers and whistles. She sang Let Freedom Ring, a heartfelt song that led much of the audience to clapping.

Wow, another skit. Are they ever going to run out? This time Srta. Michalyk made an appearance, wearing garbage bag boots, numerous accessories, and an outrageous sombrero. That was only the tip of the iceberg. The dancing, if you could call it that, left many audience members with tears in their eyes. Whether out of pity or mirth, we may never know.

If we thought that the teacher skits were funny, there was nothing to prepare us for the Mingles. Ben and Rachel Mingle came out on stage to sing a heartfelt rendition of Me and My Sister, both dressed in lovely gowns, and Ben donning a tiara. If the attire and high voices weren’t enough to have you rolling on the floor than surly the accompaniment would. Mr. Gahagan was on piano, and the playing was heavenly, although suspiciously, I never say his hands touch the keys. Whether he was blowing his nose, meditating, or just faking it the music never stopped. You could say the same for the peels of laughter filling the auditorium.

Vince Garlock made a welcome return yet again this year singing a song he wrote called Breathe, a song dedicated to his friend Sherry Ball and Breanne Lynn.

The next presentation was that of another soloist, Erin Miller, accompanied by Nick Will on piano. She gave a beautiful performance, singing Win Beneath My Wings.

Following Erin was as trio on guitar. Evan Mock, and Sam Gorsich were backup for another guitarist and vocalist, Tyler Snyder. They gave a wonderful performance that left you thinking.

Barbie Feathers was our last soloist of the night, singing The Greatest love of All. To finish off the humor section of the program our hosts introduced, all the way from Hollywood California, William Hung. Or was it Garrett Stonerook? Oh well, neither one can sing or dance.

The last performance of the night was Virgin Ears who gave a great performance playing two songs and wrapping up the show spectacularly. Of course, where would the talent show be without the Senior class slide show with it’s humorous pictures. All in all you could definitely say that that this year’s talent show was a HUGE hit! Thanks to all the performers for entertaining all of CHS!