The Avant-Garde, Verona High School’s literary magazine, hosted the second ever VHS Open Mic Night on Monday November 24. Over 50 parents and students came to the event.

Students were invited to perform, sing, or read their original works or works that inspire them. Many performed covers of their favorite songs, sang their own songs, or read their own work.

Highlights of the night included freshmen Olivia Schechter and Kitty Pagano’s rendition of The Cure’s “Lovesong,” sophomore Joe Anello’s reading of his own poem, and freshman Alex Deutsch’s reading of her own essay, written in the Creative Nonfiction class here at VHS.

Junior Seamus Elliott and Ryan Lavoie opened the night with their version of “Toe to Toe” by Streetlight Manifesto. Seamus played drums and sang, while Ryan played the acoustic guitar.

Carina Mitchell sang “Cool Kids” by Echosmith.

Senior Frances Metzger read one of her own essays, written in the Creative Nonfiction class. Senior Michaela Fogarty also read an essay by Frances. Frances had written the essay about Michaela for the Nonfiction class.

Seniors Ella Yarmo-Gray and Frances Metzger performed together, singing “Two of Us on the Run” by Lucius while Ella played guitar. Ella also sang with her brother, freshman Owen Yarmo-Gray. Together they sang “Voice in my Throat” by Pearl and the Beard.

Senior Izzy Schechter, the MC for the night, performed her own original song and accompanied herself on acoustic guitar. Freshman Danny Ben-Israel performed his own song, and then closed the night with an acoustic version of Eminem’s “Lose Yourself.” The entire audience joined in on the chorus.

The Open Mic Night, the Avant-Garde’s most successful fundraiser, saw an even greater crowd this year than last year. The staff plans to host a second night in the spring, with hopes of an even better turnout.