By Gil Alon
Arts Reporter
This Friday at 7:30 pm, Newtones and Candy Corn, two of Newton South’s most exclusive ensembles, are coming together for one night and one show that has been dubbed “Candytones.”
Newton North’s improvisation and a cappella troupes, Spontaneous Generation, and Northern Lights, will also be joining the Newton South groups, bringing together the whole town for one night. All proceeds from ticket sales go the Water Aid International, known as WAI.
This show has several unique aspects, from the location (a rug factory in Newton Lower Falls) to it being the first time Candy Corn and Newtones have ever performed together.
“I’m excited about it,” said sophomore Adam Netburn, a member of Candy Corn. “It’s going to be awesome for everyone who’s going to be there. The North improv group and the North a cappella group are also coming, so it is just going to be a big show.”
The students are passionate about helping WAI end the water crisis and look forward to putting on a fun, entertaining show for the cause.
“We know the best product comes from not taking ourselves too seriously,” said senior Samantha Adams, co-president of Candy Corn. “Each member is amazing at channelling any nervous energies into creating vibrant characters and scenes.”
The members of these groups are feeling extra nervous from the pressure of having to perform outside their usual skill set; however, the opportunity to try new things has been a very positive experience for some.
“It’s pretty new. Everyone in both groups is super supportive and sweet,” said freshman Anika Sridhar, a member of Newtones. “The members of Candy Corn have taught us a lot about what it means to do improv, so even though it’s new to me and not something I’m very comfortable with, I don’t feel embarrassed or judged.”
Adams has high hopes for the event and has prioritized practice, even though the final act will be created on the spot.
“Improv is never entirely predictable, and we remind each other to enjoy ourselves and have fun as the most important piece of a show,” she said. “But we put a lot of time and effort into crafting our art form until we feel really good about getting on stage and going for it.”
In an attempt to keep the surprise factor high, members of both groups refused to divulge too much information, but there have been hints that the two groups will be switching roles.
“Newtones are gonna give their best attempt at making people laugh and Candy Corn is gonna show everyone their wonderful voices,” Sridhar said.
Tickets are $7 for all Newton Public Schools students and $10 for general admissions. The event is being held at Gregorian Rugs in Newton Lower Falls (2284 Washington St).
“[The audience] can expect to have their socks blown off,” Netburn said. “[The audience will] see people performing outside their comfort zones, which I think is always exciting and always makes…fun energy around the show.”
More information about the cause, click here: http://water.org/
