New Year, New Editor:
Hello Lit Mag! I'm Daneen Khan, and I'll be running the Interact page for the 2022-2023 school year. I know it's been a minute since this part of the site has been updated, but we're back and better than ever! Expect to see more reviews, recommendations, playlists... more of everything, really. Since I'm also Co-Editor In Chief of The Gator's Eye, a lot of this writing will be crossposted and hyperlinked between both sites. I'm excited to get active here, and I hope you enjoy the content!
Attending the Art Market
This feature was crossposted on The Gator's Eye. Read there for additional information!
A variety of art was available for purchase.
Artists and art appreciators returned to school last Thursday for Green Level’s fourth annual art market. The visual arts department and National Art Honor Society spent months planning the giant auction of student artwork. But this year, the auction was just one part of the event–performances, animals, and Artist Alley sellers joined the market, too.
“We wanted to create a fun and aesthetic atmosphere for our artists and guests,” said Art Market Director Maren Molinaro. “Our priorities were to make sure everyone had something fun to do, like making crafts, watching performances, enjoying the art, and talking with other artists!”
By those goals, the Art Market was a definite success. With over a hundred pieces for auction and fifteen Artist Alley sellers, there was a huge variety of work to purchase. Student organizations, including K-Pop Dance Club, Indian Classical Dance Club, and Chorus, took the stage and captured the attention of attendees. Food varied from Crema Coffee to Baking for a Benefit’s homemade sugar cookies. And if guests wanted a minute to unwind, various board and video games took over the back corner of the cafeteria. No matter where you were, you were surrounded by excitement and energy.
Last year’s Art Market theme was “sophisticated coffee shop.” This year, that theme was “Renaissance Faire.” Student volunteers donning flower crowns wandered the crowds, eager to help. Each section was cleverly named as though they were actual Ren Faire locations, varying from “The Guild” to “The Joust” to “The Kid’s Castle.”
“It was nice to see the diverse background of Green Level come to support the Fine Arts and celebrate each other together,” shared sophomore Mariam Manadath. Manadath worked hard both in organizing artwork and as President of Photo Club. She and her board created a floral photo wall for guests to take pictures at the market.
Manadath's fellow NAHS member Aleena Sebastian added on, describing the market as “truly the cutest snapshot of the best things GLHS has to offer.”
Students, staff, and guests appreciated the visual arts department’s hard work! We can’t wait to see what’s next for the arts at Green Level.
“We wanted to create a fun and aesthetic atmosphere for our artists and guests,” said Art Market Director Maren Molinaro. “Our priorities were to make sure everyone had something fun to do, like making crafts, watching performances, enjoying the art, and talking with other artists!”
By those goals, the Art Market was a definite success. With over a hundred pieces for auction and fifteen Artist Alley sellers, there was a huge variety of work to purchase. Student organizations, including K-Pop Dance Club, Indian Classical Dance Club, and Chorus, took the stage and captured the attention of attendees. Food varied from Crema Coffee to Baking for a Benefit’s homemade sugar cookies. And if guests wanted a minute to unwind, various board and video games took over the back corner of the cafeteria. No matter where you were, you were surrounded by excitement and energy.
Last year’s Art Market theme was “sophisticated coffee shop.” This year, that theme was “Renaissance Faire.” Student volunteers donning flower crowns wandered the crowds, eager to help. Each section was cleverly named as though they were actual Ren Faire locations, varying from “The Guild” to “The Joust” to “The Kid’s Castle.”
“It was nice to see the diverse background of Green Level come to support the Fine Arts and celebrate each other together,” shared sophomore Mariam Manadath. Manadath worked hard both in organizing artwork and as President of Photo Club. She and her board created a floral photo wall for guests to take pictures at the market.
Manadath's fellow NAHS member Aleena Sebastian added on, describing the market as “truly the cutest snapshot of the best things GLHS has to offer.”
Students, staff, and guests appreciated the visual arts department’s hard work! We can’t wait to see what’s next for the arts at Green Level.
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January Book Recommendation: We Are Okay by Nina LaCour
January is, to me, the most poetic month of the year. There's something so melancholic about its cold nights, the temporary dedication to new year's resolutions we never keep. But it's beautiful, too.
If January was a book, it would be We Are Okay. LaCour's short novel is an emotional read about love and grief. Despite being set in New York's frigid winter, the book is surprisingly warm; I've never read a novel that left me feeling both hopeful and empty until I read this one. Marin's story revolves around running away from a past that can't escape you. She's looking to her future but can't let go of her past. And when her past follows her in the form of her ex-best friend, Marin is forced to face her fears. If you're feeling a little lost in life, missing childhood, love 'Tis the Damn Season by Taylor Swift, or just have the same sense of January as I do, pick up a copy of We Are Okay from your favorite bookstore. You won't regret it. |
Environmental Club Sheds Light on Solar Power
This feature was crossposted on The Gator's Eye. Read it there for additional quotes!
Taylor Hill fundraises at a Green Level football game.
Last February, student Victoria Plant applied for a 42,000 dollar grant to install solar panels at Green Level High School. Her application got approved in late April.
“I remember opening the email, and I squealed…” Plant reminisces. “Then we were just waiting on the county to approve [the panels].”
Wake County authorized the grant over the summer, but even getting to that point was difficult; there were many intricacies behind applying. Green Level’s Environmental Club spent hours researching the school’s capacity for solar energy and the mechanics behind the panels., which contribute 3-4 kilowatts to the school’s energy supply. That’s enough to power a space like the gym or office.
Plant is a senior and stands as the current President of Green Level’s Environmental Club. She and the club have worked tirelessly to raise the 12,000 additional dollars needed for the panel installation. They’re only about 4,000 dollars away from meeting their goal.
Fundraising has proved a unique challenge for the students. Since GLHS clubs can’t technically collect money, Environmental Club embraced every strategic loophole they could find.
“I remember one of the first steps was reaching out to athletics,” shares sophomore Taylor Hill. “They don’t necessarily sponsor us, but they were one of the first ways we began fundraising.”
Environmental Club fundraised at football games, gave announcements over the speakers, reached out for sponsorships, and partnered with the PTSA to raise money. Social media was a crucial ally; the club even has a Linktree that goes to the fundraising page directly. And when they aren’t online, you can catch the students at school events, walking around with posters on meter sticks to connect with donors in person.
“It was a little nerve-wracking at the beginning because we didn’t want to be ‘too much.’ We wanted to be resourceful and informative, but not too much that it was a full-on presentation every time we talked,” says junior Isabella Moreno.
At first, donations flew in, but they slowed down as the year progressed. However, Environmental Club is still getting big chunks of money every so often; currently, that money is coming from their Elf Gram initiative. The students are acting as Green Level’s personal elf assembly line, spending their meetings constructing Elf Grams with candy for friends or teachers. Bags can be bought at lunch or online through Thursday. They sell at 2 dollars each (or 3 for 5 dollars) and have been very well received so far. In just a few days, the Environmental Club has sold over 200 bags–propelling their goal even closer to completion.
The panels last for around 20 years and save hundreds of dollars annually.
“For all the NC Green Power solar schools, it’s been a total of 68400 dollars in electricity expenses saved since 2016,” says Moreno.
But the panels stand for more than just financial practicality; they’re a symbol of hope for the future. In a world overrun with negative news and disheartening media, the panels will be a tangible sign to educate the next generation of students about climate change while also standing as a testament to student accomplishments. Since the panels would be on the ground (Green Level’s roof isn’t built properly for them to be above), everyone will see Environmental Club’s hard work.
“That’s the biggest thing, ” says Hill. “It’s inspiring other classes. Students did that! We had a lot of support from adults, but it was definitely a teenage-led initiative.”
The solar panel initiative is proof that students can make a difference. Plant, Hill, Moreno, and the rest of their club members show incredible dedication and passion for their cause. Environmental Club’s relentless effort has contributed to months of hard work, and that work will manifest when their efforts pay off. Thanks to them, Green Level is one step closer to being truly green.
“I remember opening the email, and I squealed…” Plant reminisces. “Then we were just waiting on the county to approve [the panels].”
Wake County authorized the grant over the summer, but even getting to that point was difficult; there were many intricacies behind applying. Green Level’s Environmental Club spent hours researching the school’s capacity for solar energy and the mechanics behind the panels., which contribute 3-4 kilowatts to the school’s energy supply. That’s enough to power a space like the gym or office.
Plant is a senior and stands as the current President of Green Level’s Environmental Club. She and the club have worked tirelessly to raise the 12,000 additional dollars needed for the panel installation. They’re only about 4,000 dollars away from meeting their goal.
Fundraising has proved a unique challenge for the students. Since GLHS clubs can’t technically collect money, Environmental Club embraced every strategic loophole they could find.
“I remember one of the first steps was reaching out to athletics,” shares sophomore Taylor Hill. “They don’t necessarily sponsor us, but they were one of the first ways we began fundraising.”
Environmental Club fundraised at football games, gave announcements over the speakers, reached out for sponsorships, and partnered with the PTSA to raise money. Social media was a crucial ally; the club even has a Linktree that goes to the fundraising page directly. And when they aren’t online, you can catch the students at school events, walking around with posters on meter sticks to connect with donors in person.
“It was a little nerve-wracking at the beginning because we didn’t want to be ‘too much.’ We wanted to be resourceful and informative, but not too much that it was a full-on presentation every time we talked,” says junior Isabella Moreno.
At first, donations flew in, but they slowed down as the year progressed. However, Environmental Club is still getting big chunks of money every so often; currently, that money is coming from their Elf Gram initiative. The students are acting as Green Level’s personal elf assembly line, spending their meetings constructing Elf Grams with candy for friends or teachers. Bags can be bought at lunch or online through Thursday. They sell at 2 dollars each (or 3 for 5 dollars) and have been very well received so far. In just a few days, the Environmental Club has sold over 200 bags–propelling their goal even closer to completion.
The panels last for around 20 years and save hundreds of dollars annually.
“For all the NC Green Power solar schools, it’s been a total of 68400 dollars in electricity expenses saved since 2016,” says Moreno.
But the panels stand for more than just financial practicality; they’re a symbol of hope for the future. In a world overrun with negative news and disheartening media, the panels will be a tangible sign to educate the next generation of students about climate change while also standing as a testament to student accomplishments. Since the panels would be on the ground (Green Level’s roof isn’t built properly for them to be above), everyone will see Environmental Club’s hard work.
“That’s the biggest thing, ” says Hill. “It’s inspiring other classes. Students did that! We had a lot of support from adults, but it was definitely a teenage-led initiative.”
The solar panel initiative is proof that students can make a difference. Plant, Hill, Moreno, and the rest of their club members show incredible dedication and passion for their cause. Environmental Club’s relentless effort has contributed to months of hard work, and that work will manifest when their efforts pay off. Thanks to them, Green Level is one step closer to being truly green.
Happy December, Lit Mag! This month's poem is “The Snow Is Deep on the Ground” by Kenneth Patchen, published in 1943.
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When I think of December, I think of cold, nostalgic mornings spent sipping a hot drink and wrapping myself in blankets. Here are some songs that match those vibes.
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Is “Wakanda Forever” Marvel’s Best Hit Yet?
This review contains spoilers for Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.
After the sudden loss of Chadwick Boseman, Marvel fans and creators alike mourned their beloved Black Panther. Boseman had played T’challa in four MCU projects--Civil War, Black Panther, Infinity War and Endgame--and each one was met with immense success. A sequel to Black Panther was already planned and written, but Boseman never got a chance to read it--nobody, not even his friends or castmates, knew just how sick he was. The beloved actor passed away only two weeks later.
For a while, fans remained confused about where the Black Panther franchise was heading. There was a general consensus that Boseman should not be recast, with Coogler agreeing to honor his memory. Instead, he and his team rewrote the sequel as Black Panther: Wakanda Forever and followed T’challa’s sister, Princess Shuri, as the main character.
Wakanda Forever was a work of art about love, grief, and community. The movie honored Boseman in every minute, from T'Challa's heartbreaking off-screen death (by disease, which I appreciated) to a silent memorial version of the iconic Marvel opening, to the very end, where Princess Shuri overcomes her grief with fragments of their time together and finally burns her funeral robes, symbolizing the end of her grieving period.
Shuri, played by Letita Wright, was the best choice for a new main character. The kid princess from Black Panther was replaced by a workaholic burying her grief, a warrior desperate for revenge, and a leader rising from the ashes of her past. But every actor was at their absolute best, bringing emotional depth, humor, and strength to their beloved characters. Angela Bassett (Ramonda), Dominique Thorn (Riri Williams), Danai Gurira (Oyoke) and Tenoch Huerta (Namor) had standout performances in the film.
The plot of Wakanda Forever was equally strong. I’ve seen some criticism of Ross’s storyline and Nakia’s reasoning for not being present, but I felt like Ross and Val tied in well and Nakia’s explanation felt completely logical. Namor’s underwater kingdom and compelling backstory made him an instant fan-favorite, and watching Shuri become blind with vengeance was both heartbreaking and captivating to follow. The movie repeatedly surprised me; nothing was predictable. I was sure that nobody would die (besides T’Challa, of course), so Ramonda’s death left me reeling. Shuri’s “visitor” in the ancestral plane made me gasp out loud. And, of course, that end-credit scene setting up a future king had the entire theater tearing up.
Every scene of Wakanda Forever left me on the edge of my seat. I repeatedly felt like I was about to laugh and then sob five minutes afterward, but none of it seemed abrupt. The movie instantly became a marvel classic, and perhaps one of the best things the studio has ever released.
After the sudden loss of Chadwick Boseman, Marvel fans and creators alike mourned their beloved Black Panther. Boseman had played T’challa in four MCU projects--Civil War, Black Panther, Infinity War and Endgame--and each one was met with immense success. A sequel to Black Panther was already planned and written, but Boseman never got a chance to read it--nobody, not even his friends or castmates, knew just how sick he was. The beloved actor passed away only two weeks later.
For a while, fans remained confused about where the Black Panther franchise was heading. There was a general consensus that Boseman should not be recast, with Coogler agreeing to honor his memory. Instead, he and his team rewrote the sequel as Black Panther: Wakanda Forever and followed T’challa’s sister, Princess Shuri, as the main character.
Wakanda Forever was a work of art about love, grief, and community. The movie honored Boseman in every minute, from T'Challa's heartbreaking off-screen death (by disease, which I appreciated) to a silent memorial version of the iconic Marvel opening, to the very end, where Princess Shuri overcomes her grief with fragments of their time together and finally burns her funeral robes, symbolizing the end of her grieving period.
Shuri, played by Letita Wright, was the best choice for a new main character. The kid princess from Black Panther was replaced by a workaholic burying her grief, a warrior desperate for revenge, and a leader rising from the ashes of her past. But every actor was at their absolute best, bringing emotional depth, humor, and strength to their beloved characters. Angela Bassett (Ramonda), Dominique Thorn (Riri Williams), Danai Gurira (Oyoke) and Tenoch Huerta (Namor) had standout performances in the film.
The plot of Wakanda Forever was equally strong. I’ve seen some criticism of Ross’s storyline and Nakia’s reasoning for not being present, but I felt like Ross and Val tied in well and Nakia’s explanation felt completely logical. Namor’s underwater kingdom and compelling backstory made him an instant fan-favorite, and watching Shuri become blind with vengeance was both heartbreaking and captivating to follow. The movie repeatedly surprised me; nothing was predictable. I was sure that nobody would die (besides T’Challa, of course), so Ramonda’s death left me reeling. Shuri’s “visitor” in the ancestral plane made me gasp out loud. And, of course, that end-credit scene setting up a future king had the entire theater tearing up.
Every scene of Wakanda Forever left me on the edge of my seat. I repeatedly felt like I was about to laugh and then sob five minutes afterward, but none of it seemed abrupt. The movie instantly became a marvel classic, and perhaps one of the best things the studio has ever released.
KEN NWADIKE: Activism Through Kindness
Ken Nwadike speaks to GLHS students.
When Ken Nwadike walks across the front lines of a protest, he doesn't do it without fear.
“I’m not out there with a bulletproof vest or anything... but if I’m not there, then who will?”
Nwadike grew up with four siblings and no stable living environment; the only refuge in his childhood was running track. As an adult, he organized the now-annual Hollywood Half Marathon for homeless youth. For a while, he focused on organizing similar races and events in the area. Then, after the Boston Marathon bombing, his goals shifted.
"When you’re both of those things, both a runner and you produce a large race, all you can think of is all the spectators... the runners that lost limbs or lost their lives... something had to be done about that," shares Kwadike.
Today, Nwadike is best known for The Free Hugs Project, where he puts on his signature black t-shirt and opens his arms to anyone in emotional situations. He also travels the country as a motivational speaker, which brought him to the Green Level Auditorium. His career hasn't been without setbacks--it's pretty hard to hug someone from a six-feet distance, after all--but he always bounced back.
I'm not sure if I agree with Nwadike's ideology. I think I'm not quite as peaceful and skilled with words as he is, and I don't think I'd ever be able to head into a conflict and hug someone on the opposite side, especially in heated moments. Sometimes, I feel like violence has to be justified. But that's what makes Nwadike special--his unwavering belief in hope. Nobody else could do what he does, so he reaches people that nobody else could.
“I’m not out there with a bulletproof vest or anything... but if I’m not there, then who will?”
Nwadike grew up with four siblings and no stable living environment; the only refuge in his childhood was running track. As an adult, he organized the now-annual Hollywood Half Marathon for homeless youth. For a while, he focused on organizing similar races and events in the area. Then, after the Boston Marathon bombing, his goals shifted.
"When you’re both of those things, both a runner and you produce a large race, all you can think of is all the spectators... the runners that lost limbs or lost their lives... something had to be done about that," shares Kwadike.
Today, Nwadike is best known for The Free Hugs Project, where he puts on his signature black t-shirt and opens his arms to anyone in emotional situations. He also travels the country as a motivational speaker, which brought him to the Green Level Auditorium. His career hasn't been without setbacks--it's pretty hard to hug someone from a six-feet distance, after all--but he always bounced back.
I'm not sure if I agree with Nwadike's ideology. I think I'm not quite as peaceful and skilled with words as he is, and I don't think I'd ever be able to head into a conflict and hug someone on the opposite side, especially in heated moments. Sometimes, I feel like violence has to be justified. But that's what makes Nwadike special--his unwavering belief in hope. Nobody else could do what he does, so he reaches people that nobody else could.
REVIEWS
Sharing insight on all of our Green Level art productions including: chorus concerts, dance performances, visual art showcases, musicals, plays, and more!
The Green Level Chorus Department: Winter Concert
Nethali Padmaperuma
My first Green Level Chorus concert felt like a full-blown production with different blends of musical styles and surprises at every corner for the kid, teenager, and adult. Each and every performance brought a different experience from growing up to enjoying yourself and slowing down.
“Song of Miriam” ushered coming-of-age themes and painted a story of distinctive anxiety that is often associated with the uncertainty of the future. Watching the crowd around me, I knew I wasn’t the only one feeling the chills.
Saniya Bhatia, Ava Dixon, and Amy Cherian passionately exclaimed how this song resonated with them the most because of how it displayed the struggle of taking a risk when you don’t know what the future outcome will be. “The feelings associated with Song of Miriam almost left me on the verge of tears because my senior year is closing soon,” Cherian elaborated.
The concert blended multiple tones and nuances, bringing you through ups and downs with your emotions. Leading into the holiday cheer, the chorus brought a compilation of twists with Christmas songs, ballads, and acapella-style songs and tunes. There was something for everyone with engaging sing-a-longs with holiday must-haves like “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” and “Jingle Bells” with a mix of loveable humor (only the audience would understand).
My personal favorite was “Betelehemu” sung by the mixed choir which combined the voices of the sopranos, altos, and baritones. I was stunned when four percussionists entered the stage to bring in musical styles influenced by possibly Yoruba roots. I loved the sudden movements and claps that performers did to bring a level of theatre into it. I didn’t understand the language sung, but the human connection shined through. Their liveliness and inclusive atmosphere were projected with cheers and loud claps from the audience.
One song after the other, the night transitioned into a slower mood as the yellow ambient lights started to progressively dim down. The students started to surround the four auditorium walls singing an angelic version of Silent Night. As each moment passed on a candle would light up in a random area, making the moment feel even more magical.
Saniya Bhatia recalls her final year experience, “Being in the chorus is an environment like no other because we have to be vulnerable singing together, which creates a positive atmosphere of exhilaration and excitement.” Cherian was grateful that Mr. Olson made this performance captivating with student speakers, student conductors, and a combination of percussion students.
Expecting back-to-back simple choir songs, I was astonished by the level of detail and engagement the performers brought to the audience with Mr. Olson’s artistic vision. The level of creativity he brought on stage showed his love for chorus students and our Green Level school community. The performance symbolized our community slowly reaching some level of new normals in a unifying spirit just in time for winter break.
Nethali Padmaperuma
My first Green Level Chorus concert felt like a full-blown production with different blends of musical styles and surprises at every corner for the kid, teenager, and adult. Each and every performance brought a different experience from growing up to enjoying yourself and slowing down.
“Song of Miriam” ushered coming-of-age themes and painted a story of distinctive anxiety that is often associated with the uncertainty of the future. Watching the crowd around me, I knew I wasn’t the only one feeling the chills.
Saniya Bhatia, Ava Dixon, and Amy Cherian passionately exclaimed how this song resonated with them the most because of how it displayed the struggle of taking a risk when you don’t know what the future outcome will be. “The feelings associated with Song of Miriam almost left me on the verge of tears because my senior year is closing soon,” Cherian elaborated.
The concert blended multiple tones and nuances, bringing you through ups and downs with your emotions. Leading into the holiday cheer, the chorus brought a compilation of twists with Christmas songs, ballads, and acapella-style songs and tunes. There was something for everyone with engaging sing-a-longs with holiday must-haves like “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” and “Jingle Bells” with a mix of loveable humor (only the audience would understand).
My personal favorite was “Betelehemu” sung by the mixed choir which combined the voices of the sopranos, altos, and baritones. I was stunned when four percussionists entered the stage to bring in musical styles influenced by possibly Yoruba roots. I loved the sudden movements and claps that performers did to bring a level of theatre into it. I didn’t understand the language sung, but the human connection shined through. Their liveliness and inclusive atmosphere were projected with cheers and loud claps from the audience.
One song after the other, the night transitioned into a slower mood as the yellow ambient lights started to progressively dim down. The students started to surround the four auditorium walls singing an angelic version of Silent Night. As each moment passed on a candle would light up in a random area, making the moment feel even more magical.
Saniya Bhatia recalls her final year experience, “Being in the chorus is an environment like no other because we have to be vulnerable singing together, which creates a positive atmosphere of exhilaration and excitement.” Cherian was grateful that Mr. Olson made this performance captivating with student speakers, student conductors, and a combination of percussion students.
Expecting back-to-back simple choir songs, I was astonished by the level of detail and engagement the performers brought to the audience with Mr. Olson’s artistic vision. The level of creativity he brought on stage showed his love for chorus students and our Green Level school community. The performance symbolized our community slowly reaching some level of new normals in a unifying spirit just in time for winter break.
Green Level Theatre Department Presents: A Midsummer Night's Dream
Kelsey Bohn
I remember reading Romeo and Juliet in 9th grade- my first true exposure to Shakespearean writing. As memorable as it should have been, I can’t recall much more than the Leonardo DiCaprio movie version and consistently having little-to-no idea what was going on.
This feeling of bewilderment typically associated with Shakespeare was expertly replaced with awe and excitement in Green Level High School’s rendition of A
Midsummer Night’s Dream. The production was brought together by the scenery, costumes, and acting to erase any potential confusion surrounding the utilization of Shakespearean language.
The main set consisted of several large twisting trees riddled with leaves and glowing lights. Fog machines created a mysterious atmosphere, drawing the audience in closer. All of this coupled with a deep bluish-purple cyc set eye-catching and unforgettable scenery.
The costumes, impossible to not appreciate, blended with the story, timeline, and set beautifully. They posed a simple yet effective mark upon the audience and left them wishing they dressed as well as a fairy from 12th century B.C.
Previously, I had considered A Midsummer Night’s Dream far from a comedy. While its general structure and themes still remained, the actors in this rendition spiced up the plot by utilizing witty humor to keep the audience guessing…. and laughing hysterically.
From a slightly overenthusiastic attempt at finding a lover to a moon that shone as bright as a flashlight (literally), A Midsummer Night’s Dream as performed by the Green Level Theatre Department encompassed an entertaining modern twist while still capturing the traditional essence of the Shakespearean classic.
Kelsey Bohn
I remember reading Romeo and Juliet in 9th grade- my first true exposure to Shakespearean writing. As memorable as it should have been, I can’t recall much more than the Leonardo DiCaprio movie version and consistently having little-to-no idea what was going on.
This feeling of bewilderment typically associated with Shakespeare was expertly replaced with awe and excitement in Green Level High School’s rendition of A
Midsummer Night’s Dream. The production was brought together by the scenery, costumes, and acting to erase any potential confusion surrounding the utilization of Shakespearean language.
The main set consisted of several large twisting trees riddled with leaves and glowing lights. Fog machines created a mysterious atmosphere, drawing the audience in closer. All of this coupled with a deep bluish-purple cyc set eye-catching and unforgettable scenery.
The costumes, impossible to not appreciate, blended with the story, timeline, and set beautifully. They posed a simple yet effective mark upon the audience and left them wishing they dressed as well as a fairy from 12th century B.C.
Previously, I had considered A Midsummer Night’s Dream far from a comedy. While its general structure and themes still remained, the actors in this rendition spiced up the plot by utilizing witty humor to keep the audience guessing…. and laughing hysterically.
From a slightly overenthusiastic attempt at finding a lover to a moon that shone as bright as a flashlight (literally), A Midsummer Night’s Dream as performed by the Green Level Theatre Department encompassed an entertaining modern twist while still capturing the traditional essence of the Shakespearean classic.
#STOPAAPIHATE CHALK-OUT @Bond Park
Collection of art made to call for social changes in our local community!
Since the recent hate that has been happening towards Asian-Americans, Afetiria, a local student-led organization, participated in a chalk-out event at Bond Park. Here is a collection of their members' creative messages that bring light to the ongoing hate targeted toward Asians. Art can be momentous in sparking change and making us more open-minded to others. Their efforts to be vocal about the recent hate crimes occurring to Asians across America and in our local municipality will hopefully encourage in a larger systematic conversation about Anti-Asian rhetoric.
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Their messages point to the idea that Asians shouldn't feel scared to go out on walks without getting harassed. Asians and other minority groups should feel safe to walk outside without the fear of losing their lives or getting hurt. This local student-led organization calls for this message through their flyers, chalk, and art spread across the trees and sidewalks of Bond Park. Afetiria is taking steps towards bridging the separation that is occurring between members of our community.
Photos provided by Aida Guo
Feature composed by Nethali Padmaperuma
Feature composed by Nethali Padmaperuma
Artist Feature:
Megan Liu
Megan Liu is a Green Level artist who designs and manufactures jewelry. She runs her own small business called Mlulustudio on Etsy which you can check out using the link below!
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1) Was there a specific event or person that caused you to begin creating jewelry?
The person that inspired me to start my business was my friend Ria Wu (freshman at Panther Creek) and her successful business @Hokustudio (https://www.etsy.com/shop/hokustudio) that she started during quarantine selling stickers and later jewelry. I, like every bored person in quarantine, was inspired so I took action. A whole year later, here I am. |
2) How has Covid-19 affected your art/business?
Covid-19 hasn’t affected my business very much because I launched just 2 weeks ago, with the already people slowly settling into the new normal environment and the inevitable wait of a newly launched business for sales I’d say my business is unaffected! My lovely business logo was drawn by my friend Sravani Enaganti (freshman at GL ig@sravaniart) she’s very talented and her love and passion for art are never missed. |
3) What challenges have you encountered within running your own small business?
A challenge that I have encountered while running this business is printing the Etsy shipping labels, I just got my first order and Etsy decides to make my account not able to purchase the shipping labels. Thanks Etsy, how am I supposed to send my customer their order, just hope they don’t leave a bad review for the possible delay :D
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4) Where do you seek inspiration when creating art?
Honestly, from what I’m selling now I seek inspiration from whatever’s trending, such as on TikTok, Yesstyle, Jennie, my Pinterest famous friend Marina Gao (freshman at Panther Creek) @marinelyfe, and more. 
5) What is your favorite part about creating jewelry?
My favorite part about creating jewelry is the result! What starts from a few select pieces of metal with hard work, patience, and a good eye can turn into a masterpiece! 6) What is one fun fact about you?
One fun fact about me is that I’m President and one of the founders of the GL Kpop club, go join! |
Artists On and Off the Field
A collection recognizing student athletes who are also talented artists.
Payton Kustka
Digital Media Artist, Colored Pencil Realist, and Horseback Rider
Payton Kustka is a digital media artist, colored pencil realist, and an award-winning horseback rider. She grew up around horseback riding and art, as her parents were responsible for her introduction to them. She is insanely talented, and always pushing her limits and perfecting her craft.
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1) How has Covid-19 affected your art?
"While art can be a very collaborative medium, having so much time at home has given me an incredible opportunity to hone my skills in both digital and traditional art. I enjoy spending most of my free time drawing anyways, so the flexibility of the virtual academy schedule has worked quite well for me. However, getting to participate in painting our schools very first mural with Sean Kernick was difficult due to the current Covid guidelines, but, we made it work and managed to have a great time." 
3) How did you become interested in Horseback Riding?
"Similarly with my art, I’ve always been in the horse world. My Mom and Grandmother both competed in hunter jumping at my age, and my Dad and his siblings worked in the equestrian industry as kids. In fact, my parents met at the facility that they worked and showed at! I have been very lucky to be around horses my whole life, as it tends to be a difficult sport to first break into. At the moment, I work and show almost every weekend and it is probably the only thing I do more consistently than my art." 
5) Do you have a strategy for staying motivated while drawing a tedious piece?
"Working intermittently is the best method I have for drawing tedious pieces. Especially with colored pencil drawings, filling in large spaces can be boring and time consuming, so breaking up the piece into several work periods is very helpful. I find rendering detail digitally to be similarly difficult, and I tend to work for an hour or two at a time, with music or podcasts in the background to help me from getting lost. Typically, this makes the overall time it takes to finish longer, most of my larger or more detailed drawings take between two weeks and a month, but taking my time is what helps me enjoy it more fully!" 
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2) Was there a specific event or person that inspired you to begin drawing?
"When I first entered the realm of social media I was introduced to colored pencil realism, and that’s when I began pursuing art on my own. However, my dad is a graphic designer so I’ve been familiar with the art field as a whole for quite some time. That was probably around 5 years ago now. Since then, I’ve explored painting, sculpture, graphic design, digital illustration, and more, and it has been so fulfilling." 
4) What is one of your favorite Horseback Riding memories?
"December of 2019 was my last season competing with my trainer's horse ‘Junior Mint’ who was my partner in crime for almost three years leading up to us winning Circuit Champion in the long stirrup division at Triangle Farms. We even managed to place 6th in the state for our division! Since then, I have started competing with my Grandmothers off-the-track thoroughbred Lexi, and we have been competing at 2’6” since September of 2020." 
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All artwork shown was created by Payton Kustka
Spotlight composed by Kelsey Bohn
Spotlight composed by Kelsey Bohn
Mark Hines
Dancer, Musician, and Football Player
Mark Hines is a musician, dancer, athlete, and a junior at GLHS. He was selected to be the first spotlighted artist because of his immense talent in many different art forms. He is constantly working hard to better himself by trying new things. Mark has continued to create and upload music throughout quarantine, and even says it has pushed him to work harder.
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What motivated you to take dance your sophomore year? Had you taken dance previously?
“What motivated me to take dance my sophomore year was the eagerness of myself wanting to take dance my freshman year and middle school years, but I could not due to classes. I kept working hard and kept dancing to get where I needed to be my sophomore year." Where do you seek inspiration when choreographing and creating music?
“When I choreograph in dance, I am heavily inspired by The Jabbawockeez and Chris Brown, but Michael Jackson and the movieYou Got Served allowed me to do [put together] those two styles. Music-wise, I was inspired by singers like [...] Usher, rappers like Eminem and The Game, and also my family because they put me on to everything that inspired me.” 
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How has quarantine affected your music?
“Quarantine has affected my music physically and mentally. Before quarantine, I wasn’t creating a lot of music, but now I am making a lot. It is hard because I can’t see the world and feel certain emotions if I am trapped in a bubble. This pandemic brings in certain emotions I don’t normally have, but allows me to think clearly and develop more ideas consistently.” Was there a specific event or person that influenced/caused the start of your interest in music?
“I grew up with music and that had a substantial impact on my life. My family all around is talented, some of us are musicians, athletes, and artists, and all of that was passed to me. Music back then put a lot of passion in me now, whether it is dancing or making my own music, but it allowed me to perceive the world for how it really is.” |
Last year you played on the GLHS football team while also taking dance. Do you think learning dance technique/toning dance-specific muscles during class helped your performance during football games/practices?
"Yes, learning dance technique and toning dance specific muscles helped my performance in football by strengthening my muscles and increasing my IQ as an athlete and a person. Learning dance technique also helped me by preventing injuries and made me more flexible." 
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Photos are courtesy of Mr. Mapp and Nia Spells
Spotlight composed by Kelsey Bohn
Spotlight composed by Kelsey Bohn
Art Interpretation
Art is interpretive; we want to know what you make of it.
DANCE
We asked students to answer the following questions about a piece performed by Kaycee Rice and Sean Lew on the hit show World of Dance.
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What feeling(s) do you think this dance was trying to portray? What made you think that?
Cody Cross: "Two young people trying to love and not knowing how to show that." Sebastian Adams: "The emotions that I feel they were trying to portray could possibly be falling in love and having to stay strong and work for each other. I believe this because in the portion where Sean Lew and Kaycee Rice held each other but were grasping the air behind made me feel like they’re fighting for each other." Sapna Kamath: "Falling in love because their movements were so sharp and dependent upon each other." Savanna Roberts: "I think they were fighting for love. They were interacting the whole time and at the end the light finally came on." Lauryn Taylor: "Based on the music selections and partner work, I’m thinking they are trying to portray maybe the story of a first love." Claire Bishop: "I think they are trying to portray the feeling of love and human connection- how, even through conflict, forgiveness can be found." Did you find the dance entertaining? What parts held your attention the most? Did any parts lose your attention? Savanna Roberts: "Yes, I liked when they had big bursts of energy." Aiden Roistacher: "I found it pretty entertaining, the first and last parts held my attention the most." Claire Bishop: "Yes, it was so swag. My 7th grade Kaycee Rice phase THOROUGHLY enjoyed it." Sebastian Adams: "This was beautiful, like just wow. The whole back and forth sections were amazing with how they played off of each other and still conveyed emotions of love and strength. The most entertaining portions were when Sean and Kaycee played off the musicality and when they held each other." |
What story do you think they were trying to tell in this dance? Cody Cross: "How love is pure, yet sometimes hard to keep going, but you have to look towards the good times and not dwell on the bad." Claire Bishop: "I think they were fighting for their love." Sebastian Adams: "I think they were trying to tell a story of complicated love. At first, Sean is trying to get Kaycee’s attention- to earn her love. Then when they started dancing in unison, it symbolized them coming together and falling in love. However, they also portrayed conflict in a relationship, like when he bows his head to her, seemingly asking for forgiveness. In the end she does forgive him and they come together under the light." Aidan Roistacher: "Young love." What do you think the hanging light represented? Sapna Kamath: "The 'spark' of love." Lauryn Taylor: "I think the hanging lights are stars - I believe the “couple” is star gazing." Sebastian Adams: "I believe the light represented their love." Savanna Roberts: "Their love." Claire Bishop: "Idk, like, unity lol?" |
Art Interpretation (Dance) composed by Kelsey Bohn
Sebastian Adams is a student at Enloe High School
Sebastian Adams is a student at Enloe High School
VISUAL ART
We asked students to answer the following questions about the renowned art piece painted by Monet titled “The Magpie”.
What feelings does this specific piece evoke? Is it positive or negative?
Ameek Chaddha: “Positive because snow makes me happy and it looks very serene and calm”
Sara Jadhav: “For me, this specific piece evokes feelings relating to Christmas and a very cozy and homey feeling with hot chocolate and snow falling in the background.”
Diya Ramchandani: “Definitely positive! Reminds me of the holidays and relaxation. Looks peaceful.”
Shreeya More: “Personally it evokes nostalgia, it transports me to a day off from school spent playing in the snow all day. Even though I grew up on the west coast and never experienced many snow days, this painting evokes a positive childhood feeling.”
Maddie Ford: “Positive. It feels like a cozy winter morning.”
Ameek Chaddha: “Positive because snow makes me happy and it looks very serene and calm”
Sara Jadhav: “For me, this specific piece evokes feelings relating to Christmas and a very cozy and homey feeling with hot chocolate and snow falling in the background.”
Diya Ramchandani: “Definitely positive! Reminds me of the holidays and relaxation. Looks peaceful.”
Shreeya More: “Personally it evokes nostalgia, it transports me to a day off from school spent playing in the snow all day. Even though I grew up on the west coast and never experienced many snow days, this painting evokes a positive childhood feeling.”
Maddie Ford: “Positive. It feels like a cozy winter morning.”
If the artwork was music, what would it sound like?
Ameek Chaddha: “this hard i think it would a piano solo”
Sara Jadhav: “it would relate to mariah carrey’s all I want for christmas”
Diya Ramchandani: “Classical music... relaxing and light. Also, jazz holiday music”
Shreeya More: “Like piano”
Maddie Ford: “Christmas music”
What do you think the scene is representing? Is it trying to tell a story that someone is part of? *
Ameek Chaddha: “i think it's someone who is taking a break from life in a calming place”
Sara Jadhav: “I think this scene represents a little kid trying to just explore the beauty of a snow world and just find him or herself”
Diya Ramchandani: “A view of a winter they experienced that they enjoyed. Fun day in the snow... possibly the house belongs to one of their loved ones.”
Shreeya More: “I think it’s reflecting on someone’s childhood.”
Maddie Ford: “I think it just represents a cold winter morning”
How can you personally connect with this piece of art? *
Ameek Chaddha: “i think it reminds me of snow days like playing in the snow w my friends”
Sara Jadhav: “again I relate this to Christmas so it brings out the holiday side of me”
Diya Ramchandani: “It reminds me of my winters when I lived in Seattle as well as when I visited Germany, Austria, and the Czech Republic during Christmas 2 years ago.”
Shreeya More: “I remember visiting my cousins in New Jersey when I was little and being super excited by the snow because I’d never seen this much snow before, I remember playing all day in the cold and then drinking cocoa- it’s a sweet memory”
Maddie Ford: “It reminds me of Massena, New York, where my mom’s family is.”
What part of the country or world does this piece remind you of?
Ameek Chaddha: “switzerland bc idk isn't cold there”
Sara Jadhav: “it reminds me of like Switzerland and Jungfrou(idk how to spell it) but like the very icy mountain tops with the cold and just pure joy”
Diya Ramchandani: “Northern United States or Europe in the Winter... UK countryside?”
Shreeya More: “Definitely someplace north like Michigan because that’s where I imagine kids get a lot of snow days and spend it playing outside.”
Maddie Ford: “Northern New York, because that’s where my mom’s family lives. It’s always snowing up there and they live by the St. Lawrence river, which looks like the water in back of the painting.”
Art Interpretation (Visual Art) composed by Nethali Padmaperuma
Ameek Chaddha: “this hard i think it would a piano solo”
Sara Jadhav: “it would relate to mariah carrey’s all I want for christmas”
Diya Ramchandani: “Classical music... relaxing and light. Also, jazz holiday music”
Shreeya More: “Like piano”
Maddie Ford: “Christmas music”
What do you think the scene is representing? Is it trying to tell a story that someone is part of? *
Ameek Chaddha: “i think it's someone who is taking a break from life in a calming place”
Sara Jadhav: “I think this scene represents a little kid trying to just explore the beauty of a snow world and just find him or herself”
Diya Ramchandani: “A view of a winter they experienced that they enjoyed. Fun day in the snow... possibly the house belongs to one of their loved ones.”
Shreeya More: “I think it’s reflecting on someone’s childhood.”
Maddie Ford: “I think it just represents a cold winter morning”
How can you personally connect with this piece of art? *
Ameek Chaddha: “i think it reminds me of snow days like playing in the snow w my friends”
Sara Jadhav: “again I relate this to Christmas so it brings out the holiday side of me”
Diya Ramchandani: “It reminds me of my winters when I lived in Seattle as well as when I visited Germany, Austria, and the Czech Republic during Christmas 2 years ago.”
Shreeya More: “I remember visiting my cousins in New Jersey when I was little and being super excited by the snow because I’d never seen this much snow before, I remember playing all day in the cold and then drinking cocoa- it’s a sweet memory”
Maddie Ford: “It reminds me of Massena, New York, where my mom’s family is.”
What part of the country or world does this piece remind you of?
Ameek Chaddha: “switzerland bc idk isn't cold there”
Sara Jadhav: “it reminds me of like Switzerland and Jungfrou(idk how to spell it) but like the very icy mountain tops with the cold and just pure joy”
Diya Ramchandani: “Northern United States or Europe in the Winter... UK countryside?”
Shreeya More: “Definitely someplace north like Michigan because that’s where I imagine kids get a lot of snow days and spend it playing outside.”
Maddie Ford: “Northern New York, because that’s where my mom’s family lives. It’s always snowing up there and they live by the St. Lawrence river, which looks like the water in back of the painting.”
Art Interpretation (Visual Art) composed by Nethali Padmaperuma
Book of the Month
December
The Sun Is Also A Star
"'The Sun is Also a Star' by Nicola Yoon is a moving novel about two teens falling in love in a big city- New York. The book goes back and forth between Natasha and Daniel, the main characters. Natasha only sees the world in numbers and logic and Daniel sees it philosophically. This novel provides a unique first-generation American perspective highlighting some common stereotypes and expectations these individuals face. Ultimately, the universe and time play a role in their paths and fate."
-Nethali Padmaperuma
