As the leaves change their hue and the air becomes crisper, Tyler Junior College Homecoming 2011 greets fall with its vibrant school spirit and legendary traditions. The celebration kicks off Monday, Oct. 24, to a week of non-stop activities that foster Apache pride.
To start off the week, the TJC theatre department will deliver the smash-hit musical, “Godspell,” on both Monday, Oct. 24, and Tuesday, Oct. 25, at 7:00 p.m. in the Apache Rooms. As one of the most popular rock musicals of the twentieth century, the show is loosely based on the gospels of Matthew and Luke, portraying Jesus’ life, parables, betrayal, and death. Typically, the production is presented using flower-power hippies and slap-stick humor. However, director Denise Weatherly-Green, musical director Heather Mensch, and assistant director Kati Sigler have completely turned this classic on its head with a modern twenty-first century rebirth. Tickets are $5 for students, $10 for faculty and staff, and $15 for community members.
On Wednesday, Oct. 26, from 8:00 p.m. to midnight, the Apache Rooms will be transformed into a disco roller rink to celebrate the homecoming theme, “Staying Alive at 85,” referring to the college’s 85th anniversary. Students are encouraged to dress in their best seventies garb and strut their stuff on the rink to bring back the days when “Saturday Night Fever” was popular. There will be music, games, skating, and other fun activities to enjoy. Late night breakfast will be served in Rogers’ cafeteria starting at 10 p.m. and will be free to the first 500 students.
A night of pure talent, strong competition, and perhaps a few giggles will occur the next evening, Wednesday, Oct. 27, at Campus Capers, an amateur talent venue. The 10 most talented acts—each from a different organization on campus—will perform to win one of three cash prizes. It will be held in Wise Auditorium, where the doors will open at 7:00 p.m. and will start at 7:30 p.m.
To build the big game anticipation further, the Apache Nation is encouraged to show school spirit by participating in the campus wide parade and pep rally on Friday, Oct. 28, beginning at noon. Students will meet at the tennis courts and rally with the entire school to the Jenkins lawn, where performances by the Apache Band and Apache Belles will take place.
Following, a huge Block Party will be sponsored by various organizations and campus clubs where students can enjoy food, outdoor games, and activities.
The big game, the climax of the entire homecoming week, will be Saturday Oct. 29, beginning at 3 p.m., where the Apaches will play their rival, Kilgore College.
Overall, this year’s homecoming promises to be one of the best with all the exciting activities planned.
