skies

It's almost like they are SO out of their element that they are having trouble relating and getting into their show... I think it will develop into something great but right now...

I know you didn't intend to make this a literal argument, but I have to disagree. Yes, there are definitely plenty of moments during a performance that exhibit either great skill, phenomenal talent, or excellent/breath-taking design... and you stop and go... 'um...why isn't anyone applauding?' And yes, these moments that SHOULD be rewarded with applause. It seems like audiences only applaud for stuff that, on the surface, is exciting, such as big tosses and obvious visual/musical "moments." But I won't suppress applause for a lousy catch or a lack of technique. These kids are pouring their hearts out onto the floor and trying their hardest. As we all know, there are times when being on that floor is TOUGH and takes a lot of courage. World class or B class, it doesn't matter. There is no reward for these kids other than the applause they receive from the audience, and they deserve that.

^^^ This is why I don't really like seeing these "THIS IS EXACTLY WHAT THE SHOW IS ABOUT" reviews... what if we are anticipating seeing this group perform? I would much rather read something that hypes me up to see that particular show, rather than have it spelled out for me. It's like ruining the ending of a movie you haven't seen.

Quick South Florida recap... SA: Cypress Bay: these ladies are fierce! they're in it to win it! SO: West Broward: show design is phenomenal... week 1 and these girls dance and spin as well as any world class group. Spanish River: a very creative show utilizing large hoops. very effective design! Stoneman Douglas: fantastic show design, some great solo moments and that stoneman attitude we know and love! sadly they are not attending Dayton SW: Flanagan: this year we get to see a different, refreshing side of flanagan! this whimsical yet hypnotizing show will be one to watch this season!

A little birdie told me Stoneman Douglas is "back"!

Anyone want to... er... elaborate on Carmel's show? I'm a little lost.

I'd have to agree with Guardling. I saw a silk unroll before Braddock took the floor and I couldn't even tell what the design was, and I was in the first row. So I highly highly doubt that image had anything to do with the crowd's reaction. A few individual mistakes really killed the ending of the show which was going so well, and I know those around me fell out of the Braddock spell at that point.

I'm sorry for snapping, this decision was finalized very very recently and I wasn't aware of it! Sorry!

There has been no finalized decision in terms of Stoneman Douglas' varsity winterguard. I'm not sure where you got that from, but it's not true.

Not really sure what you're looking for, but Broken Arrow Senior HS won BOA Grand Nationals with their incredible show "Aqua" in 2006. And I could begin listing winterguard shows but there are tons of 'em...

This argument is expected, but what if an individual has absolutely no experience and wants to perform, but is not at the world-class level?

This is an excellent idea.

FIU is not folding (at least not that I know of); they are facing funding issues with their marching band which effects the winterguard.

I joined only to respond to this discussion about Stoneman Douglas. Our program has gone through a drastic number of changes in the past 2 years. We have almost completely revamped our staff (not necessarily for the better) and were forced to make very last-second changes. Our new main color guard instructor did not have the time to design the show Douglas fans know and love (which usually take a full year or more to design). Also, with few new members and a lot of vets quitting and graduating, it was very difficult (I am sure) for these girls this season. And I must agree with the post previous to me... "The Hunt" was also the result of a staff change. It goes without saying that it is nearly impossible to design a world-class show without knowing the strengths and weaknesses of your individual cast members.