Fishfest Hits Grainger

From head to toe in neon and nylons, combat boots and teased-up hair, hundreds of students flocked last Saturday to the second dance of the season, Fishfest. Hosted by DRAMAT, the academy’s student-run performing arts club, the 80’s themed dance drew legions of legwarm-clad dancers and music to match.The goal of the dance was to introduce students to DRAMAT, according to board member upper Jad Seligman. “I didn’t [know the event was hosted by DRAMAT] and most of the new board members didn’t know either, so we figured that if we didn’t know then no one did. So, we emphasized that we sponsored it and advertised [the dance] at the auditions that took place the next day.” He added, “It worked. We got a huge turnout.”Upper Liz Hoover, who is also on the DRAMAT board, said that, although most of the students on the board have gone to Fishfest in the past, none of them knew that the dance was hosted by DRAMAT. When talking about the dance, she said, “I think that Fishfest is unique from other dances because of its 80’s theme. Some people can get tired of the same kind of music at every dance and want something different. 80’s music is fun to dance and sing along to and it’s really nice to have something other than the usual type of music for once.”

"Most of Exeter's dances are all the same-techno music and cramped crowds of people. Fishfest is a fun change of pace."

The dance, named after Fisher Theater and set up by 12 DRAMAT board members and two faculty members, was a success in its own right, however, for some, the turnout for Fishfest was lower than what was hoped for. Upper Rachel Sachs said, “There were lots of people there this year, but next year even more should come! When it comes to Exeter dances, the more the better.” She continued, “Most of Exeter's dances are all the same-techno music and cramped crowds of people. Fishfest is a fun change of pace.”The mostly 80’s themed dance was generally popular and well enjoyed, but a few students weren't thrilled with the change of music that occurred during the dance. Senior Olivia Owlett said, “The DJ asked the students if we wanted more modern music, so from then on it was a mix of 80's and modern pop.” She added, “Personally, I think he could've played only 80's dance music.”Senior Matthew Geary shared similar sentiments. “My favorite aspect was the 80’s music, not the newer music.” Aside from the music, Geary enjoyed the dance as whole. “It is 80's themed in the whole aspect of neon but in true 80’s style watch breakfast club to find out what was worn in the 80’s.”For some, the costume worn was the only real distinguishing factor from Fishfest to other dances. Senior Sasha Jones said, “All of the dances are very similar in terms of what happens during them although there is different attire... it is basically the same thing. Going to one is like going to all of them.”Despite this, the dance was thoroughly enjoyed by those who attended. “I love the 80's theme and last year the music was great because it was all 80's songs that everyone knew. Whereas this year, I didn't know all that many songs,” said Upper Callan Malone. “I love the theme though, so I definitely think it should stick with the theme!”Attire among students was very creative, and some even bought 80’s themed clothing in preparation for the dance. “My favorite aspect of the dance is the theme and the way that everybody dressed up for it. It’s so much fun to find the perfect 80’s clothes and get ready with friends and dorm mates,” said Hoover.Upper Mason Polk was intrigued with the array of clothes that people wore to the dance. He said, “I’m usually not that into dances, but this one was pretty different from the typical Exeter dance because of the way people dressed. That made it much more enjoyable.”