Steppers to Perform at Step-Off on Feb. 16

On Feb. 16, students will have the opportunity to see and to hear the steppers perform at the 10th Annual Parkway North step-off at Parkway North High at 3:00 p.m.

“[Stepping] is an expression of attitude and a release of energy.  When I step, it transforms me and makes me feel like a different person,” said sophomore Kaylyn Kent.

The steppers will help students and parents celebrate Black History Month by  performing while other schools in attendance will be competing.

“[At the showcase] there will be a competition among other area high schools for who has the best performance.  Although the steppers will not be competing, they will be performing,” said sponsor Joshlyn Harris.

Tickets are $5.00 and will be sold at the door the day of the show.  The step-off will be held in the upper gym.

“When we perform we have attitude, we look mean, unlike the other squads who are peppy,” said Kent.

The steppers are different from the other spirit squads in that they use their own bodies to produce the rhythm and sound for their performances.  Additionally, the steppers have to pay close attention to their timing in order to ensure that their rhythm is exact and precise.

“Trusting each other is one of our biggest challenges, trusting that everyone else will do good and perform well,” said Kent.

Stepping involves the performers to be in sync and be aware of one another at all times.  This involves students to be able to trust others that they will keep the rhythm and remember the steps.

“The [steppers] biggest challenge is being taken seriously.  People value the other squads more than steppers.  I hope this [showcase] will show the school that we are a legitimate squad,” said Harris.

Written by Gianna Sparks — Features Editor