TF students, staff display variety of talents

Thompson Falls Elementary School has some talented students, and they are not afraid to show it.

Every spring Thompson Falls music teacher Lisa Mickelson displays student talents by putting on a "Variety Show" for fellow classmates and the community. In celebration of the show's third year, 11 acts were featured that included singing, dancing, hula-hooping, improvisation and comedic acts from emcees Diego Long and Faith Palmer.

"This is such a good opportunity for students to showcase their talents and a fun event for students at the end of the school year," Mickelson commented. "I think it is important to show the skills kids have outside of the classroom and see kids push their comfort zones to gain confidence."

Mickelson said that she receives inquiries about the variety show as early as the beginning of school, in the fall. "There are those that are prepared," she said addressing how many students spend their recess time practicing their performances throughout the year.

For three afternoons, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Mickelson had the pleasure of observing roughly 30 student auditions, one every 10 minutes, all with high hopes of receiving a spot in the highly coveted line-up. Unfortunately, the hour-long show just isn't enough time for everyone to have a spot.

Those who had the opportunity to entertain at the 2018 Thompson Falls Variety Show were: Aubrey Baxter, Teagan Dorscher, and Addie Traver performing "The Star Spangled Banner," Solveig Nygaard and Journey Hall performing "A Better Place," Gabi Hannum and Emma Claridge dancing to "Shake It Off," Emilio Holloran singing "Dirt on Boots," Destiny and Autumn Elder, Sophia LaFriniere and Kaylei Hinck hula-hooping to "Scars to Your Beautiful," Marley Neesvig singing "Jolene," Harmony Schilling and Lilly Burk carrying out an improvisation set, Gabriella Taylor and Olivia Fitchett singing "Pink Sunglasses," Matea Keefe and Kayla Fausett performing their very own "I Love You and You Love Me," Trinity Riffle singing "Hard to Find," and Cora Anderson, Tilly Kreiner and Lexi Franck performing "Feel it Still."

The show closes every year with a hilarious, surprise feature showcasing the elementary teachers and staff. This year was no disappointment. Teachers danced their way through evolution; "The Tonight Show" host Jimmy Fallon's "Evolution of Hip-Hop" that is. Highlights included junior high science teacher Doug Padden doing "The Dougie" and fourth grade teacher Cory Kump doing a perfect rendition of "The Carlton." Incredible sounds of laughter, and screams of excitement, were shared throughout the performance as students realized just how "cool" and "fun" their teachers, kitchen staff, secretary, counselor and principal really can be.