Pizza, Jams, and Jeans: a favorite tradition

Photo Credit: Danya Ziazadeh

As over 160 people crowded into the cafeteria, excited chatter filled the air. Pizza, Jams, and Jeans–a favorite tradition–was back again.

The event, which featured performances by the Mercyaires, Glee I, and Orchestra, was conducted by Music Director Ms. Rebekah Ferguson and Orchestra Director Ms. Marianne Corrigan.

The cafeteria was redesigned to fit the theme of ‘Mercy’s Malt Shoppe.’ Performances celebrated music from the early 50’s– the era of rock and roll and soda shops. Root beer floats were available throughout the night and were a crowd favorite.

The flood of people entering the cafeteria never seemed to die down, and performers were ecstatic to entertain the large audience.

“The turnout was great…the [performers] had to even give up some of [their] tables because there were so many people,” said senior Natalie Apollinari, Mercyaires member.

Spirits were high as guests piled their plates with salad, pizza, and an assortment of desserts. After families, friends, and students gathered around tables to eat, the performances began.

Performances included One Fine Day and We Go Together from the Glee I class, and Mr. Sandman from the Mercyaires.

Soloists included Katie Koenigsknecht, Kendall Reid, and Meg Makarewicz, who sang Burning Love, Freddie, My Love, and Walking After Midnight respectively.

Makarewicz admitted that she would miss the event for years to come.

“It’s my favorite Mercy concert, and doing it for the last time was so bittersweet for me,” said Makarewicz, who performed a solo every year.

In between vocal performances, Orchestra entertained the crowd with Rock n’ Roll Classics such as We’re Gonna Rock Around the Clock, The Lion Sleeps Tonight, and Blueberry Hill. The Orchestra also did a tribute to Elvis including Can’t Help Falling in Love, Hound Dog, and Love Me Tender, as well as perform classics by the Beach Boys, such as I Get Around and In My Room.

The night ended with a group number from Glee I and the Mercyaires, who sang a medley of songs in the Doo-Wop style.

“It was amazing seeing all the love and support from family and friends [who were] excited to see what we worked so hard to prepare,” said senior Madeline Flynn.

Flynn, who has taken part in the event since freshman year, commented she will always cherish performing with her best friends.

“Being able to do what I love for family and friends with my favorite people is quite the ultimate experience,” said Flynn. “It was a great memory to look back on and I can’t wait to come back next year and watch what my amazing girls have in store for us.”