VIBE Ends Successful Season : By Claire Campbell and Isabelle Wilker

Lights. Camera. Murder. DHHS VIBE’s Murder on the Orient Express captivated audiences and judges alike, marking a record-breaking season for the program. With five grand champion titles, it's clear their hard work and persistence have paid off.

VIBE is a show choir program that combines singing, dancing, and acting in competitive performances. This season's show told a dramatic story through its powerful vocals and sharp choreography.

The production used a creative train-car interior to bring the mystery to life, blending theatrical suspense with their high-energy pop songs.

According to VIBE leadership, many roles contribute to the group's success, including presidents, dance captains, vocal captains, costume captains, and position captains, who work together to keep rehearsals organized and productive.

“This year I am one of the two presidents involved in VIBE, and my role is to keep everyone engaged and to bring the energy to all of our practices,” Claire Levis, co-president, said.

High energy and willingness to put in the work have impacted VIBE’s output. Ronald Soja, director of VIBE, added more structured assignments, including dance quizzes, to help members retain choreography and technique for more polished performances.

In addition to winning overall titles, VIBE was recognized for three best choreography awards, an outstanding band recognition, and six best vocal awards, one of which was awarded during their season trip in Ohio.

Everyone in VIBE contributes to their success.

“When people watch the show, they are watching and listening to the choir, but the band makes it so much more exciting,” Zucconi, senior VIBE member, said. “It adds a whole other layer of complexity.”

On March 25, VIBE closed out their season how they began it– with a cabaret eagerly attended by their peers and members of the community. Attendees said they loved the senior solo performances as well as the visible progress VIBE has made since their season debut in January.

“I am really proud of everyone for all of the hard work and dedication throughout this season,” sophomore choir member Elle Vradenburgh said.

“Although the program sometimes gets overlooked, it’s one of the things that makes Daniel Hand special,” Nicole Bettuchi, senior member in VIBE, said.