The expensive cost of entertainment doesn’t always correlate well with a thinning wallet, but Grand Valley State University students don’t have to break their piggy banks for the Sept. 11 Student Spotlight Showcase – it’s free.

The showcase, hosted by student-run event organization Spotlight Productions, features several GVSU students who applied for spots to perform in Area 51, located on the lower level of Kirkhof Center to the left of River Landing.

Oh, and free ice cream and brownies.

“It’s a great event that caters to all students and a fun way to get involved on campus,” said Bradley Kosiba, music committee chair for Spotlight Productions.

Each act will have 15 minutes to perform, and although the showcase is intended for musical performances, Kosiba said that poets are welcome, too.

Mark Pierce, a GVSU student musician, is returning to the Student Spotlight Showcase stage Tuesday night.

“Spotlight Productions is good for students who are trying to get use to playing in front of a crowd … to me, it’s a good outlet to simply express myself toward others,” Pierce said.

Although Pierce will be performing solo, he is also part of the Grand Rapids-based band Something Utopic.

Like many artists he experiences nerves before a performance.
“I use to be really nervous about these kinds of events,” Pierce said. “But if you know your material and are able to play, sing, act to yourself, then what’s stopping you from doing it in front of others?”

Pierce encouraged students to try out for a Student Spotlight Showcase, he said, because it is a rewarding experience.

“This show has always been an important aspect of Spotlight Productions’ music committee. We recognize that there are many musicians at GV who want to perform, and we are glad to make that a possibility,” Kosiba said.

Kosiba added that Spotlight Productions is still looking for acts to fill open slots.

To sign up, or for more information, email [email protected].
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