Ann Arbor always does a particularly good job of showcasing local teen talent. Between frequent shows at the B-Side, the amazing theater programs from the public high schools and the Neutral Zone poetry slams, the public is easily able to keep up with what teen musicians, poets, and artists are doing. Breakin’ Curfew, an annual show at the Power Center, takes showcasing teen talent to the next level.
This year, almost 1,300 kids, teens and adults attended the eighth annual Breakin’ Curfew. The show is curated, produced and marketed by Neutral Zone teens and staff, who partner with the University Musical Society.
“Our goal is to represent Michigan youth arts in the best way we can,” said teen curator and Community High School junior Senait Dafa. “It’s also about getting curators who know different acts and can help find a variety of talent.”
Breakin’ Curfew included talents ranging anywhere from written word and dancing to violin duets and fiddling. This year’s lineup contained almost 20 acts, including local bands like Space Based Adventure, Maximum Will and Me & Ryan.
CHS junior Maggie McKillop performed on her fiddle. It was her first time performing for a large audience. “It was terrifying, actually. At dress rehearsal I kind of panicked because I finally saw how big the [Power Center] was, but once I got out there it was really fun.” said McKillop. “The one thing the performers appreciated was how supportive the audience was. It was like anyone could go on stage and the audience would love them.”
One of the more notable acts was the Detroit Youth Gospel Choir. The Choir opened Breakin’ Curfew and raised the energy level of the audience, right from the beginning.
This year’s Breakin’ Curfew included four Pioneer poets: Claire Shorin, Beth Johnson, Carlina Duan and Adam Desjardins. Johnson’s poem was a well-known self-written piece about her love for an Urban Outfitters model. Desjardins’ poem talked about the current generation’s facination with the “i” products (iPhones, iPods, iPads, etc.).
The night also feaured the folk-based acoustic duo, Me & Ryan. Me & Ryan is composed of CHS students Jake Cinti and Ryan Shea. The two sang a tribute song to Ann Arbor, sporting painted flowers and bare feet.
Under Fire, a modern percussion and upright bass group, played an intriguing array of classical far-east music. The group is made up of Huron High seniors Jake Johengen and Don Gozzard. Pioneer bassist Aidan Cafferty proved to be an incredible soloist. “Playing at Breakin’ Curfew was definitely a great experience, and playing with Jake and Don was amazing.” said Cafferty. Under Fire was created three years ago and plans to stay together.
This year’s show was easily a success. Breakin’ Curfew does an excellent job of bringing a diverse assortment of talent together. It is building a good reputation for itself, and will undoubtedly continue to draw the public’s attention.
