On Dec. 5, Freshman Rowan Plinsky got up in front of more than 200 people and read poetry.

Can We Talk recently coordinated the first Free State talent show. It was hosted by Kelly Barah and featured scenes such as “Endless Love”, sung by India Taylor and poetry by Ashley Curtis and her poetry club.

“From the get go, I thought it was success,” Master of Ceremonies Kelly Barah said. “The ability for people to believe that this could be done. Teachers, students and community members all on stage–it’s just beautiful.”

Judges gave constructive opinions and improvement ideas.

“It was excellent, very, very enjoyable,” Judge Elaine Elliott said. “I hope [Danielle] asks me to judge again next year.”

Organizer and ISS teacher Danielle Geronymo says that she and security guard Charles Thomas wanted to host a talent show at Free State.

“We wanted to start a tradition that would promote equality and the support of others,” Geronymo said. “We also wanted people to be able to show off their talents.”

Actors not only enjoyed the one-liners or acting–they also felt the camaraderie.

“I enjoyed being on stage with everyone else and just having fun,” participant Rowan Plinsky said.

Rowan read a piece on love and death with four other students and Curtis.

The judges could see the bond between actors and audience.

“I loved how everyone was there to support each other,” Elliott said. “No one was there with a nasty attitude. They were there to support the performers.”

Due to the success, Can We Talk is already planning next year’s show.

“Oh yeah,” Geronymo said. “It’s going to be a tradition!”