Over the last 33 years, the Festival of Trees hosted in Davenport, Iowa has evolved from a two day tree display and dinner show to a nine day experience filled with art of many varieties. The festival continues to grow each year, providing many opportunities for students to display their creativity and talent.
From Nov. 23 to Dec. 1, the stage at Festival of Trees featured a variety of PV talent, creating a sensational atmosphere for performances.
Senior chamber choir member Katie Gropel performed many Christmas carols with the rest of her group on Nov. 26. She was captivated by the vivacious air that filled the room as she performed. “I love all the lights and Christmas trees, and the whole room is just all happy Christmas-y vibes. It just gets you excited for the season,” said Gropel.
Junior Kaitlyn Christ, a member of the PV Platinum dance team, also performed at the Festival of Trees through her studio, Tina’s Dance Studio. They chose to perform at this venue because they appreciated the pristine and spirited artistic displays brought each year by the event. “[My studio director] said she likes the Christmas environment and the stage and sound quality they provide,” explained Christ.
In addition to the noteworthy ambience the annual event holds, it also provides growth experience for the local artists. “My favorite part is being able to listen to other singers and soloists after we sing. It makes me want to do what they do, and it just gives me motivation to be better,” said Gropel. She valued watching the other performances equally as much as she prized presenting her own.
Christ prized the exposure the opportunity gave her. She was able to perform excerpts from “The Nutcracker” that she will be performing later this month. “I enjoyed performing at Festival of Trees because it’s another chance to put our dances out in front of an audience,” said Christ. “We [also were able to perform] our competition routines that we are competing this season.”
Senior Paul Malachuk also received recognition for his artwork–a second place award in the drawing category. Malachuk has always enjoyed drawing as a way to relax, but the Festival of Trees gave him a chance to be acknowledged for the talent possessed within his hobby. “Festival of Trees was fun, but I wasn’t expecting to do that well in it, so it was a pleasant surprise,” said Malachuk.
The Festival of Trees was much more than a holiday display; it was a way for local artists to gain confidence, learn and grow in their skills. The talented individuals can now bring these gifts into the new year even after the lights and holiday flair are taken down.
