You may have heard about Java Jive from your English teachers, choir teachers, student representatives who have come to your English classes, or the posters all around the school. But what is it?
Though many may think of it as a more music-based event, Java Jive is actually sponsored by the Creative Writing Club (CWC). Poetry is an essential part of Java Jive, along with music: there are plenty of musicians who perform, but there are just as many poems. The point of Java Jive is to express oneself and spend an evening with other people who also appreciate good music and poetry.
Java Jive is an event that not many people in the school know about, as it hasn't been held for two years because of Covid. Prior to the pandemic, it used to be an annual tradition. Only current seniors have potentially been to or performed at Java Jive at the High School.
So here’s everything you might want to know about the event, coming from one of the two Java Jive coordinators:
Java Jive is planned to be held in the Little Theater on Friday, May 15th, 2022, at 7pm. As of now, there are plans for Java Jive to be sponsored by one of our local stores, in order to have snacks and beverages available. Due to Covid, everything will be prepackaged, rather than homebaked as it’s traditionally
been. As with regular schooling, masks are not going to be required, though individuals are free to wear them if it makes them feel more comfortable. In past years, the event has been very successful, garnering a huge turnout; it got to the point where there were people standing in every available stretch of flooring once the seats were taken, and there were students chilling in the adjacent hallways listening to the music and chatting. Unfortunately, due to the pandemic, this year there will be a limited number of people who will be able to attend, as it is required to stay at the maximum capacity of the Little Theater.
If you are the type of person who likes to try out the unfamiliar and explore something new or if you love performing in front of an audience and sharing works of art, then Java Jive is for you! Java Jive has a relaxing vibe and is a night full of fun and appreciation, when people put themselves out there and are celebrated for it: it is a welcoming space and a refuge from the constant strain of the school year. But this year’s Java Jive (the first since the pandemic) will certainly be a surprise and first-time experience for all of us. All interested students are encouraged to attend and perform at the event!
The 2017 Java Jive, hosted by the Creative Writing Club, featured impressive student performances in both poetry and music.
Photo Credits: Niskayuna Schools