For the past several weeks, the Bridgeport Middle School “Opening Act” Show Choir has been rehearsing vocals and choreography for competition/performance season – which because of weather-related cancelations – was launched just this weekend. Under the direction of Eric Stoneking, the group just performed a double header; Saturday’s VocalFest at Robert C. Byrd High School and today’s Harrison County Show Choir Showcase at Liberty High School.

 

The 24 girls – in glam and bling - and six boys – in dapper dress - sang and danced their hearts out, performing a show called “Love Notes,” a takeoff on teenage relationships – the highs and the lows. The series of tunes includes, among other numbers, “When I Was Your Man,” “Cooler Than Me” and “What Doesn’t Kill You Makes You Stronger.” The latter tune turned out to be quite ironic.

 

At the conclusion of Saturday’s competition between show choirs from throughout West Virginia, Virginia and Ohio, it was announced that “Opening Act” of BMS had won first place. As to be expected, the team was ecstatic and celebrated accordingly.

 

A few hours later, however, Mr. Stoneking received word that a mistake had been made. Scores were tabulated incorrectly and BMS had not earned first place. It was the Washington-Irving Show Stoppin’ Toppers that had actually taken top honors. It wasn’t easy for Stoneking to tell his performers the news, but he did so with compassion and determination to do the right thing. He came up with a plan and shared it with his kids.

 

After “Opening Act” performed at today’s non-competitive showcase, the BMS entertainers took their bows, then did something that deserves a bow from us as community members. Show choir member Tamara Hyman – who was named best performer at Saturday’s event – took the mic and invited the WI Show Choir to the stage. Stoneking then announced yesterday’s mix-up and the 1^st place trophy was – with smiles - passed on to the “Show Stoppin’ Toppers.”

 

It all went off without a hitch. Stoneking said he couldn’t be prouder of his kids.

 

“They were so gracious and really handled it like pros,” he said. “The WI kids gave each of our kids a rose. It was very touching.”

 

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again and again. It’s great to see our Bridgeport kids win but sportsmanship like this cannot be topped.

 

Someone suggested today – and I certainly agree – that perhaps the BMS Show Choir should change its name to “Class Act.”

 

Kudos also to “Opening Act’s” Kamden Dulaney, who was named Saturday as best male soloist.

 

And I’m sure you will join me in wishing members of this group the very best in their endeavors next weekend as they participate in state show choir competition in Charleston. Just today, “Opening Act” wished the same to the team that is perhaps their biggest competition.

 

“The awkward and seemingly tragic turn of events at yesterday's VocalFest competition ends today with healing and new friendships,” Stoneking said earlier today. “Degee* would be thrilled at the way this was resolved. Good luck at states to the county champion Toppers. Looking forward to competing with you again on Saturday!”

 

And you can bet your bottom dollar that this team is working extra hard this week toward accomplishment of their goal.

 

“The kids are super determined after this weekend roller coaster,” Stoneking said.

 

Editor's Notes: *Degee Warne, who taught music at Washington-Irving Middle School and was director of the four-time state champion “Show Stoppin’ Toppers” show choir passed away earlier this school year. 

 

The "Opening Act" Show Choir material is choreographed by Chase Reeder, a recent Bridgeport High School graduate who now attends West Virginia University and serves as color guard for the WVU Marching Band. 

 

Read more about "Opening Act" and its show HERE. 

 

Julie Perine can be reached at 304-848-7200 ext. 2, julie@connect-bridgeport.com or follow @JuliePerine on Twitter! More "It's Happening" HERE.