AHS Mock Rock wows audience like never before
Legally Blonde was excited about not only winning the competition, but for guaranteeing their spot in the county-wide show in May.
–Students of Atascadero High School mocked it ‘til they dropped it at the 2017 AHS Mock Rock and talent contest. The show was held at the Atascadero Middle School’s Baro Gym on Saturday, Apr. 22, at 7 p.m. The show featured a variety of acts ranging from singing to drumming, and of course, mock rocking. Each act was judged by an esteemed panel of judges, including: Nichol Erbstoesser (AHS Alumni), Asia Croson (SLOWhat? Magazine), Ilija Vrajich (AHS Alumni), Caleb Davis (Atascadero PD), and Sholly Vonstein (AUSD teacher). By the end of the show, the first place prize for the Mock Rock was given to the group, “Legally Blonde” and the first prize for talent was given to Joseph Boche.
The show, hosted by Zack Talbert and Josh McEwen, started off with a jazz ensemble called, “M2 Collection.” They gave a performance that excited and wowed the crowd, setting the tone for the rest of the night. Following that act, Emily Burchfield sang “Gravity” by Sara Bareilles. Her heartfelt singing eventually landed her third place in the talent category. Later, the first mock group of the evening performed a medley of ABBA songs from the musical “Mamma Mia.” The act had audience members singing along to the well-recognized hits. The group’s performance later earned them third place in the “Mock Rock” category. Following that act, Alora Shahan gave a second place winning monologue during her act, which was aptly titled, “A Monologue.” Her emotionally charged acting had the audience cheering uproariously by the end. Just before the intermission, Brianna Becerra took the stage to sing James Arthur’s “Say You Won’t Let Go,” leaving the audience cheering for her performance and excited for what was in store after the break.
Legally Bonde’s performance dazzled the audience, eventually earning first prize.
After the break, the second Mock Rock group sang a medley of songs from the musical, “Legally Blonde.” Their excellent lip-synching, choreography, and overall spirit earned them first place in the Mock Rock category as well as a spot in the upcoming County Mock Rock on May 14. Following “Legally Blonde,” the act “Rezonate” featuring the musical and vocal talent of Staci John as she sang “Just Like Fire” by P!nk. The recognizable melody had audience members singing along with the chorus. After John’s act, Joseph Boche came up to perform a solo drumming act to the song “The Walker” by Fitz and The Tantrums. Boche act wowed the audience with his smooth drumstick moves and impressive skills and ended up deservedly earning himself first place in the talent category. “I was really surprised,” said Boche, commenting on his success, “I was competing against people who were really talented.” Finally, in what was both the final Mock Rock and final act of the night, the group “Amigas Cheetahs” performed a Cheetah Girls song that had people tapping their feet to the beat. Their fun choreography eventually earned “Amigas Cheetahs” second place in the Mock Rock category.
Overall, the show was a huge hit with everyone involved, audience and acts alike. “There was a surplus of talent at the 2017 Mock Rock,” said Ashlyn Brookshire, group leader of Legally Blonde, “and we were very grateful that we got first place.” “It was a blast,” she then added, “we were very blessed to be a part of it.” While ecstatic about their victories, the first and second place acts still continue to prepare and polish their performances before their county-wide Mock Rock on Sunday, May 14. For anyone who may have missed the show on Saturday, there is a full video recording of the show below:
