It’s Friday night, the second quarter just ended. The sun is setting behind the blazing stadium lights as students file back into their seats with nachos in hand ready for what some would call, the best part of the game. It’s time for the halftime show. 

While the band and color guard may make this show look easy, it’s hardly that. The process is filled with rigorous morning practices from dawn to sunrise.

“It’s really intense; we work for hours outside,” band member Trace Delacerda said. “It takes a lot of energy to do, especially when it’s hot.”

These performances are brought to football games, as well as performed at intense competitions throughout the season. Not only do band members have the task of keeping the crowd fired up for the second-half, but the pressure of impressing the competition judges. 

“There’s pressure and stress, especially since we’re competing at state this year,” color guard member Eliana Wade said. 

Students in both organizations persevere with hope that their hard work pays off. Not only for the audience, but for their own personal growth as a student. One of their goals as a member is to learn valuable life skills that can be applied to their core classes, jobs and social life.

“Band has taught me perseverance,” Delacerda said. “Everyone has some point where they want to quit, but when you perform, it all pays off.”

Performing is a creative outlet that gives a sense of exhilaration unlike any other. The rush of knowing a thousand eyes could be on you at any moment might be intimidating to some, but band and color guard members don’t shy away.

“I feel a rush of adrenaline,” Delacerda said, “The crowd reaction really keeps me going.”

While all half-time shows have a goal of a big and bold show, this show takes it to a whole new level. 

“The theme this year is massive,” color guard member, Larissa Hutchison said. “It’s a concept show. So it’s a play on words standing for mass media, mass exodus and masquerade.”

The theme strives to portray not only this show, but these programs. With not only a massive collection of students, but massive amounts of passion, dedication and effectiveness.

“It’s about all out,” Delacerda said.

The next performance is Saturday, Sept. 28 at the Little Elm competition.