Davenport North are grand champs at Stars in the Spotlight

FORT MADISON - The energy inside Fort Madison High School on Saturday was electric. They hosted the 36th annual Stars in the Spotlight event, welcoming schools from all around the state. The dedication and commitment centered around this competition were unmatched. 
Fort Madison senior Ethan Huffman said it best. “This sense of community that we have built around Stars in the Spotlight is what makes it such a special event.”
As schools arrived throughout the day, the energy in the halls steadily grew. Students and parents from other schools shared words of encouragement as groups performed. Seventeen schools stepped foot on the stage and delivered high-energy shows. 
The cafeteria remained busy all day, with lines growing longer as the event continued. One stand that seemed to be bustling all day was “Beaded by Arden,” a bracelet stand by Fort Madison 5th grade student, Arden Santiago, who never seemed to have a break during the competition. She explained why she enjoys selling her bracelets at the competition.
“It felt good because I was glad people were having fun. Being able to interact with customers and meeting new people is my favorite part.”

As the night went on, awards were handed out in various categories. Southeast Polk walked away with the best vocals, best ballad, and best crew. Davenport North won the best band, best closer, and best choreography. Mount Pleasant won best opener and Southeast Polk’s prep group won best costumes. In the individual awards category, Reese Riewerts (Davenport North) and Carter Killoren (Keokuk) were named best soloists. 
Carter Killoren of Keokuk described his reaction after winning best soloist. “ I didn’t think I was going to get it. I’m just so blessed and grateful that I won.” 
He also talked about his takeaways from this season, and one thing that’s important to him is being a leader. A lesson he hopes to carry on beyond show choir.  
The six finalists for the competition included Davenport North “Northside Establishment,” Southeast Polk “RAMification,” Mt. Pleasant “InMotion,” Central Lee “C-Force,” Southeast Polk “Vocal Gold,” and Davenport North “Center Stage.” 
Davenport North's “Northside Establishment” took home the title of Grand Champion with a combination of high energy and complex choreography that captivated both the audience and the judges. 
With another year of Stars in the Spotlight done, Taylor Stoddard and the Fort Madison Music Department begin to prepare for this year's Dessert Theatre performance, which showcases other groups within the music department.