Eagerly expecting the awaited Night of the Arts I approached FSU-Panama’s Auditorium at 6:30 p.m., the hour scheduled for the show to start. Dusk fell and the “Hora Panameña” took its toll on us, and so the act began well into the night. A good amount of students assisted, even though I expected almost all of FSU-Panama’s students to be present.

     The evening began with a nice comedic performance entitled “Big Nose,” performed by the Drama Club, which managed to entertain us and make us laugh with its inventive originality and sarcastic approach. The Drama Club didn’t miss a spot, from having from a shiny pumped-up chest armor wearing character (always a hit), to an exciting sword fight, to a tongue-in-cheek joke contest, ending with a classic romantic scene. Kudos to them.


     A classic duet followed the Drama performance, and I’m talking about FSU faculty members Dr. Benjamin Murphy and Dr. Silvio Sirias, who promptly delighted us with the continuing story of the infamous song, “Lola.” This included a great appearance by Mr. Anthony Blackie, of the FSU-Panama Library, as the free-living “chick” from Casco Viejo. The trio took us on a roller coaster ride and as Dr. Murphy would surely say, they “tickled our fancy.”


     Next, Mr. Eric Holland, Athletic Director, presented awards to those students who have excelled in the sports field, truly a very emotional moment. I would like to congratulate all of those who received their trophy and have held the FSU banner high during numerous sporting events. Way to go, Seminoles!

     After much clapping and cheering, the grand piano was dragged into the stage for Derek Underwood to display his technique and ability on the classical instrument. Sans the big fake nose he sported at the beginning of the show, he executed a fine melodic piece with much spontaneity that was enjoyed by all and garnered the strong ovation of those in the Auditorium.

     Later, the famous FSU-Panama billiard room spectator, Prof. Donaldo Fong, introduced a very special part of that night’s show. He presented various típico dances that were excellently carried out by a dance group that included his daughter, Vivian. It was a really tremendous idea to include a little piece of Panama inside the “Night of the Arts” and I think it’s something very important so that the many foreign students present at campus can get to know our beautiful country. Cheers to those who brought this forth!


     We then prepared for the rock bands. Soundcast, The Vox, and Dry Water Alloy all performed some good, up-beat tunes and were tagged along by a touching acoustic presentation by Luis Manuel Philos and Bobby Rodgers.

     The evening ended with Raquel Arrue’s very innovative ecological modern dancing and belly dancing, too, which was appreciated for its creativity.

     Of course, I haven’t forgotten special guest Roxy (was that the recently elected President of the SGAP, Nemo Agurcia, wearing a dress?) who along with co-host Marcus Guillette kept us entertained between each presentation with their compelling and humorous dialogues.


     I’d like to thank and congratulate everyone who participated and made this “Night of the Arts” possible. In case you missed this one, we’ll be expecting you next time. Be there or be square!


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