Thunderbird completed its Grand Opening & 75th Anniversary Global Reunion this past week. It was a week-long celebration, welcoming T-birds from all across the world. To kick off the anniversary, the first four evenings of the celebration consisted of regional nights: Latin America, Africa, Europe, and Asia. Thunderbird Alumni, faculty, current students, and many guests participated in making the regional nights successful. The regional night celebrations included traditional dances, acting and musical performances, and fashion shows.
Some of the performances that were part of the Latin American Night were Latin Jazz by Robson Correa de se Silva (’22) and Latin Rockers! By Global Sounds. African Night consisted of Gamboot and Afrobeat dance along with African drums. The highlight of the evening was a play titled, “The King’s Contrivance” directed by current student Ayodele Adeola (’23). In the European Night, La Macarena was performed by Global Moves along with a special performance by Das Tor, the Zorba Greek Dance. The Asia Regional Night concluded the regional celebrations with performances representing the diverse cultures of Asia. Some of the highlights of the night were the Kendo demonstration, the art of Shodo, by Yusuke Kura (‘23), as well as dance performances including Garba by Global Moves, Afghan Folkloric dance, and Kurdish dance.
Current student Espoir Le’dieu (’22), who participated in the Africa Night, described her experience of participating in the Africa regional night: “The regional night was nothing short of amazing! I truly enjoyed showcasing my culture to everyone. I won’t lie; I was very nervous about performing, but my peers, alumni, and professors’ comments on how they enjoyed the show and the dance warmed my heart. I am so happy I was part of something so magical and beautiful!”
Another current student Julie Schultz (’23) shared how she loved seeing her global classmates share their culture at the regional nights. She noted that her favorite parts were the dances and the fashion shows.
Thanks to all the hardworking students and staff who came together to put on such wonderful shows during the 75th Anniversary! Click on the photos below to see more unforgettable moments from the night.
