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Night of Nations Show Goes On With Virtual Performances


night of nationsOrganizers of the annual Night of Nations, SUNY Plattsburgh’s celebration of culture and diversity on campus, will be able to keep the tradition going by presenting a virtual show.

 “This is an entirely new format for Night of Nations this year,” said Kelly Byrnes, one of the student event organizers. “We understand that many students may feel uneasy or confused about the process; however, the team is doing all it can to make this even go smoothly. We knew, despite the circumstances, that we wanted and needed to figure out a way to make Night of Nations happen.”

With an anticipated Nov. 14 broadcast date, the program is being recorded Nov. 6.

“The air date is still being discussed with the videographer due to editing the piece together,” Byrnes said.

“This is definitely a big opportunity to have a lot of viewers,” Byrnes said. When not in a pandemic, Night of Nations is held for one night in E. Glenn Giltz Auditorium. “Now, anyone will be able to stream the video and watch from the comfort of their home. It is vital to stay positive during the pandemic, and that is exactly what we have been doing.”

Once aired, the show, “Rewind: A Global 360,” can be watched over and over again through social media and YouTube. Those details will be made available when they are ironed out, Byrnes said.

Five groups have auditioned so far and include performers from the Chinese Association and dance groups Jedi and Spicy Island Tings, She said. Dress rehearsals and filming will take place on the stage, but Byrnes stressed their priority “is to keep all those involved safe.”

“Dress rehearsals will be carefully executed as to ensure all guidelines are followed continuously. If a group has too many performers, the filming will take place outside where social distancing can be practices,” she said.

Helping with Night of Nations promotion is what Byrnes called “the greatest ally throughout the years,” Club International.

“Our club is very hyped up with this year’s event,” said Club International President Manasi Jadhav. While none of the club’s board members are on campus this semester, she said “we are very excited and looking forward to this event and are ready to collaborate. We have already been promoting the event and will continue to do so.”

Even with auditions having been via Zoom Oct 16, Byrnes said students who are interested in performing can still reach out.

“We can absolutely figure something out,” she said. Contact Byrnes at [email protected]. Fellow organizer, Antonella Angulo Madueno, can be emailed at [email protected].

Additionally, Byrnes said they encourage people to follow them on Instagram at @nonplattsburgh, where all updates and information are posted.

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