By Meredith Farrington, Assistant Features Editor

The school hosted the annual semi-formal dance for all students in the commons on Dec. 7. The Community Life council, led by faculty advisor Janet Drudy, along with Dean for Student Life Melissa Whelan organized the event and decorated the commons, transforming the space to radiate the theme “The City That Never Sleeps.” More than 300 students and dates were in attendance, making this year the largest semi-formal in school history.

Because the recent renovation of the commons significantly enlarged the space, all four grades were able to attend the dance this year, unlike last year when the dance only included freshmen and sophomores.

Senior friends make use of the photo booth props and backdrop at the semi-formal on Dec. 7. (Photo courtesy of Logan Dziadzio)

“It was a very fun night and I’m glad that every grade attended,” sophomore Victoria Piazza said. 

The upperclassmen felt similarly. “I thought it was really cool that all grades were able to enjoy a fun night together,” junior Maggie Jordan said. 

Students thoroughly enjoyed the music and remained on the dance floor for nearly three hours straight. “The DJ was very good this year, and his song selection was even better than it has been the last few semi-formals,” junior Brynn McGuiness said. “Everyone danced the entire night.” The self-serve candy bar for the students to eat sweets during the dance and take some home after a night of dancing was also a huge hit, as was the photo booth with thematic props and backdrop.

Some members of the sophomore class gathered for photos before the semi-formal on Dec. 7. (Photo courtesy of Caroline Cashman)

The enjoyment of those in attendance made the many hours of preparation worthwhile. 

“It was a lot of fun to decorate the commons for the week,” senior Community Life council chair Hope Caucino said. “Although hectic at times, so many people contributed to decorations that we are very grateful for. The Community Life council was a great help, and it came out amazing.” 

The art club painted a New York City skyline tapestry as well as several other signs and decorations for the dance. “Making the semi decorations was definitely very enjoyable,” senior art club leader Shantal Ferrer said. “I loved seeing everyone’s inner artist come out as we shared lots of laughs and got paint everywhere.”