By Monika Gerges
On Feb. 28, FVHS Friday Night Live (FNL) hosted the annual talent show themed “Night Under the Stars.” The show’s ten contestants, energetic MC’s and special guest judge captivated the audience from start to finish.
The first act of the night was by Phap Long Lion Dance. Their impressive lion dance routine swept the audience off their feet. The sound of applause and cheers filled the gym as the group performed.
Next, junior Iva Erwin took the stage to perform “Love Will Come and Find Me Again” by Bandstand. Her powerful yet soulful rendition wowed the crowd.
Taking the stage after Erwin was senior Kaitlin Kogami with the diabolo. Although her act set her apart from the other contestants, the crowd’s encouragement was something she shared between the others. Her act was so loved that Kogami was chosen as crowd favorite via a survey from the audience.
Following that performance, sophomore Alyssa Howard took the spotlight singing “Scars to Your Beautiful” by Alessia Cara. Before her performance, Howard shared how the song helped her get through tough times and gain the confidence that she has today. The audience supported her through her inspiring and emotional performance.
Up next, Dylan Tran gained the attention of the crowd as he sang the classic “Best Part” by Daniel Caesar while playing the guitar. His acoustic take on the song definitely awed the viewers as they waved their flashlights to show support.
Taking a break from the phenomenal acts, the viewers were able to buy snacks as well as raffle tickets for a chance to make a TikTok with guest judge Kaylee Pereira. FVHS students Linh Thai, Michelle Nguyen and Carmen Do won the raffle and danced with Pereira as the rest of the audience watched.
Following the intermission, Thaovi Nguyen and Jenny Tran sang “Listen” by Beyonce. The girls stole the spotlight in matching white outfits and rocked the stage.
Bryan Huynhua presented “Someone You Loved” by Lewis Capaldi, the second acoustic take of the night. Although there was no music in the background, Huynhua’s natural talent still moved the audience.
By far the most spectacular show of the night, Julie Cavanaugh performed the unique Polynesian dance “Tahitian Otea.” Cavanaugh didn’t miss a single beat as she strutted across the stage.
For the last solo act, junior Tara Lam sang the moving ballad “Rise Up” by Andra Day. Although Lam had the assistance of background music, her voice was still the most amazing part of the show. Her message certainly resonated with the audience as she was voted runner up in the crowd favorite contest.
Last, but certainly not least, dynamic duo Jacob Dahl and Nour Abu-Samrah stunned the crowd as they sang “If I Ain’t Got You” by Alicia Keys. Their balanced harmonies and wide vocal ranges allowed these two to win the 2020 talent show.
