Airband – Interhouse at its Finest

3 November 2020Damien B, Privett ‘21; Photo by Bonnie Z, Mack '21

An excellent combination of dancing, lip-synching, story-telling, and performances, Brentwood’s interhouse Airband competition is always a night to remember. Various combinations of Junior, Senior, brother, and sister houses come together to deliver a musical event unparalleled in inspiration and passion.

This year’s Airband featured, like previous, a cocktail of well-thought-out choreography and humorous acting. It’s an invaluable chance for a house to work together and deliver a stunning act while having a wonderful time thinking of ways to steal the show.

This year’s Airband had to be altered somewhat due to COVID-19, so most of the audience watched from the houses on a screen. Only members of the performing house were in the theatre during their housemate’s dances. This had both positive and negative effects, as the celebration was not as lively in the theater, but these Covid seating arrangements permitted snacks in the houses. There was also a new rule stating that there was to be “no physical contact between performers” which created a unique challenge when organizing our performances. Fortunately, the Airband competition was as exciting and entertaining as always. Mr Ganley, of Monday night Privett Dutymaster fame, reflected: “Ms Napier and I benefited from one of the Covid mitigation strategies – its live broadcast – as we were able to watch the whole thing at home. Full marks to all the participants on a very entertaining evening.”

I’ve always enjoyed viewing the Airband event more than performing in it, but after participating in it this year, I would recommend that anybody who is considering playing a part in their house’s display next year to take up the challenge and go for it. It’s a one-of-a-kind opportunity to spend some quality time collaborating with your peers, and the applause always feels exhilarating. The shock and stress dissipate almost immediately on stage, as you are compelled to smile and exaggerate every movement you’ve spent weeks preparing. I say weeks, but choreography sometimes happens more urgently than it would seem. Either way, as was stated during the planning for the Airband I participated in: “It’s more about having fun on stage than getting every move right.”

I can’t wait to watch next year’s Airband if it becomes available. I believe an email containing all but one performance will be sent out shortly, and everyone will be able to re-enjoy the stunning event from beginning to end.

Damien B, Privett ‘21

Where Students Choose To Be