‘Muse’ showcases passion for creativity

Gabriel Gruba
Staff Writer
For the price of only three canned food items, an array of local artists stimulated the thoughts of ECC students and all who attended The Muse, an artistic expession event in the Jobe Lounge on November 12.

Advertised as "an explosion of creative expression," good vibes and high spirits were present from both artists and attendees. The Muse was presented by ECC’s Phi Theta Kappa (PTK), College Programming Board, and Amnesty International. Anastasia A. Kutther, president of PTK, said the three groups came together because they wanted to give people a chance to express themselves and to show how creative and artistic ECC students are.

"That Man’s on Fire," a two-man acoustic set, started off the evening and entertained the audience with their comedic lyrics and stage performance. The crowd was excited to hear and see other forms of self-expression: poetry, short stories, monologues, and songs.

Russ Devereaux, "ECC’s Got Talent" winner, shared his poetry from memory and delivered it with passion. Devereaux captivated the audience with his thought-provoking ideas, and the attendees applauded for an encore several times. He appeared more than pleased to share more of his work.

Performing two interpretations and one original short story, Ryan O’Connell had the crowd’s undivided attention by telling his stories with deep conviction of their chacters.

The room went quiet when Kutther gave a speech that demonstrated her vocal and acting ability. Later, lighters and cell phones were raised as she sang acapella.

The night came to an end with the Beatles tune "With a Little Help From My Friends" sung by the audience, followed by four other closing songs.

Let’s do another one!" audience members shouted, not wanting the night to end. When asked what he thought of The Muse, O’Connell said Devereaux did a great job of organizing the event but said the best part was the food drive.

We have had some truly wonderful performers tonight," said Kutther after thanking everyone for coming and sharing.