On May 4th, parishioners and friends of St. Michael, Surrey hosted a potluck dinner that included the first Parish Talent Show. The evening started with much enthusiasm as parishioners started setting up the hall, gathering and tabling the wide variety of food brought by the attending families. The evening was made ideal by the sunny, warm weather. With 75 people attending there was a delicious variety of food, thanks to the diversity of cultures in attendance.
The talent portion of the evening consisted of various performances by folks with a wide range of talents beginning with Andy Whitmore, the M.C., who demonstrated the unique sound of the Dulcimer, followed by Tony, who performed a hand-clapping “Robot Dance”. Next up was Richard, who explained and performed a “Beat Box” number. Gifted story teller, Martha, with the aid of simple props, entertained everyone with a special fable and Fr. Louie’s 8 year old daughter, Gail, played a lovely piano solo entitled “Knights at the Ball”. Corri instructed the audience on the art of Origami and people began immediately, making dolls, penguins, and some interesting looking folded papers. Michael played the guitar and sang a wonderful Hawaiian song. Talented performer, Donna, told some engaging family related stories and Fr. Louie had everyone participating in a new fun type of dance/body movement called “Gwiyomi”. Derek performed a variety of musical numbers on his special guitar, and Andy regaled the audience with his explanation of “Expressive Worship”. Last, but not least, the choir sang the chorus of “Que Sera Sera” while Jedi sang the verses with great fervour and quick changes of costume and props with the help of his friend, Sasha.
Everyone who attended the event had fun while learning something new and interesting about their fellow parishioners and friends. New members were made to feel most welcome and part of the church family and attendees celebrated the Easter/Pentecost Season with God given talents making all realize that faith and fun can go hand in hand.
Images: Top, A good-sized crowd enjoys a potluck dinner in the hall. Upper right, M.C. Andy Whitmore, Lower left and homepage, Tony’s “Robot Dance”. Below, all participants gather at the front.
PHOTOS: Louie Engnan