Purple Haze
A trip to the 50’s
By Elizabeth Thomas

February 24 , 2011

_____Last week, the Northern High School cast of Bye Bye Birdie held a Sweet Shoppe Sock Hop in the high school cafeteria. As some of you may know, the musical previously held character breakfasts where younger kids could do crafts, eat breakfast and take pictures with the costumed cast. This event was not only fun for the kids but also for the students because it was their first opportunity to wear costumes and delve deeper into their character. This year, the Sock Hop was held for people of all ages and included a lot more activities, such as 50’s dancing, hula hoop contests, Frisbee contests, and ice cream floats.
_____The event was organized by Jackie Krimmel and Nance McCown, and many items were graciously donated by local businesses and some students. People who entered the cafeteria were swept up in a pleasant atmosphere as the cast greeted the guests warmly and happily danced to 50’s music. Records hung from the ceiling over a dance floor, and a long table colorfully displayed various treats and snack cakes. Nearby were stations that offered coloring or a chance to play with popular toys from the 50’s, such as a Mr. Potato Head or an Etch a Sketch.
_____Some children who came were able to enjoy the interactive activities with the cast, such as learning the hand jive or hula hooping, while some adults took a stroll down memory lane as they enjoyed the candy and ice cream floats. I remember that my dad ate a tootsie pop and said that he hadn’t had one since he was a kid.
_____Some of the cast members couldn’t have had bigger smiles on their faces as they jumped up to learn every dance and seize every opportunity to be in character. After they had a taste of the 50’s, a few remarked that all high school dances should be this way.
_____Overall, the Sock Hop was a fun and lively event where a guest of any age could find something pleasurable. The cast would like to thank everyone who participated and hope that they encouraged you to come and see the musical.