Lights, Camera, Action! Just like that, the Coffeehouse starts - an event where people from the school come to express themselves. It is a place of community and belonging, where everyone can be themselves without the fear of being judged. Whether it is a poem, song, band performance, duet, or instrumental piece, anyone can perform anything they want, and the Portledge community is welcome to come and support them.

​

After school, Bahnik Hall undergoes a transformation. Couches and sofas from the Middle School atrium are carried into the space, fostering a hospitable environment for spectators and performers alike. A majority of the performers stay after school before the show. During this time, students rehearse and connect with friends for a few hours, while also enjoying pizza before they go on stage. As people practice and rehearse, you see the preparation before the magic unfolds on the stage. The nerves that everyone undeniably faces, the months of practice showing through, the amazing feeling felt once you see your friends smile in awe of your practice, hard work, and dedication. As you are eating and laughing with your friends, talking about your excitement and nerves, suddenly everything feels simple and easy.

​

The lights are dimmed as audience members enjoy chocolate chip cookies, cupcakes, popcorn, and warm apple cider in a cozy, loving environment. There were numerous performances that moved our hearts and touched our souls, such as upbeat pieces from movies and shows, and a quick contrast of sentimental and emotional songs and poems. This year, we had the pleasure of having a record amount of performances, as many freshmen stepped up to present their talent for the first time, and seniors had their “first last Coffeehouse.” Senior Sarah Friedberg expressed her love for performing in the Coffeehouse, stating how "It's so fun to perform and the community is so supportive. One of my favorite Portledge events. I’ll miss it.”  There was also a huge audience and a hype crowd that boosted confidence for first-time students. Freshman Nikki Chen said, “I like how people were able to show their talents and how we, the audience, are able to enjoy a night of lively music and have fun.” Freshman Gianna Calonita said, “I liked the sense of community and how it felt like a very safe space. It was really cool to see everyone's talents that they might not be able to show or express in school.”  Having so many people from different age groups come together during the Coffeehouse to listen and enjoy performances is a testament to how special these nights are for our community.

​

The Coffeehouse is a time adorned by teachers, performers, and audience members alike from every grade. This only occurs triannually, and is a loving time where all the members of our community can connect and enjoy each other's talents. Dean Mrs. White was able to share with us why she loves to help organize the event and work with students behind the scenes to help make their performance as amazing as possible.  “It’s my favorite event at Portledge,” she says, “because it gives all of our students the opportunity to be themselves, share who they are, and try out who they’d like to be without the worry of any judgment or grade from parents or adults.” These nights give everyone a chance to perform and show a side of themselves they might hide and feel embarrassed about.

 

The Coffeehouse is, without doubt, a perfect example of the way Portledge supports and encourages students' love of expressive art, whether it is a poem or a performance. It is personally one of my favorite nights because I get to enjoy watching my friends and everyone shine on that big, beautiful stage. Nights like these remind us that when a community comes together, the stage becomes the home; Portledge begins to feel less like a school and more like a family, reminding us that school isn't just about classes - it's about being a place where everyone belongs.