THON 2017 is off to a great start with some amazing performers warming up the crowd on stage. Several student groups including singers, dancers and musicians performed before the official THON dancers first stood up.
The musical brass band “Roar” performed along with the Penn State color guard. At one point, the color guard even lifted up the Roar conductor into the air as he played his instrument.
Photo by Danielle James
The Penn State drum line also performed on stage, ending by combining all the symbols into a big circle.
Photo by Danielle James
There was also a performance by the dance group Outcast. They brought an edgy vibe to the floor when they mixed several popular songs together with hip hop style dance moves. At one point, the dancers got a roar of cheers from the crowd as they ramped up the pace.
Photo by Danielle James
A more traditional, contemporary dance group also took the stage. They performed beautifully with their ethereal blue outfits.
It was a perfect way to prepare the dancers to begin the long haul!
When the dancers officially stood up, the Nittany Lion appeared on stage to dance with them for the first song. There may be no greater hype man than the Nittany Lion!
There were also some amazing outfits and accessories in the crowd! With so much going on at THON, it can be hard to focus on only one thing. With a closer look, however, there were some memorable outfits. On the floor there were ninja turtles, flamingo hats, sombreros, and even giraffes. And in the stands there were glimpses of sharks and fishes! It seemed like everybody chose a theme and stuck to it.
Photo by Danielle James
Photo by Danielle James
Photo by Danielle James
THON is an exciting time for students here at Penn State, with crazy colors, music, and dancing. However, its important to reflect on how important it is for the children that money is raised for. Last year, THON raised $9,770,332.32 for families affected by pediatric cancer. Let’s hope this year we can raise even more!
