The Newtown Varsity Winter Guard, under the direction of Varsity Director Alyson Kulbek, competed in the Musical Arts Conference (MAC) event at Masuk High School on Saturday, January 26. Their visually intriguing interpretation of “Hypnosis” placed second and earned a score of 61.45.

The Junior Varsity Guard, under the direction of Becca Tobin, competed at the same event. The Junior Varsity’s show, titled “It’s Coming,” is based on the theme of overcoming evil and breaking through the darkness. Junior Varsity placed fourth with a score of 55.39. The Winter Guards’ next event will be their home show.

The home show, “Newtown Winter Extravaganza,” will be held on Saturday, February 2, in the Newtown High School gymnasium. Doors open at 4 pm, and the event will begin at 4:55 pm. There will be 19 visiting color guard units from 14 school districts in addition to the Newtown Varsity and Junior Varsity Guard groups. Each winter guard group tells a story through movement, the flash of colorful flags, light reflecting off silver sabers, the toss of wooden rifles, and eye-catching costumes and props. Guards are judged on use of equipment, movement, ensemble analysis, and general effect.

Newtown Winter Percussion, under the direction of Ricky Grasso, will perform its show “Look Up” for the first time at approximately 8:05 pm at the event. “Look Up” is based on the feeling of being alone in the world, with the moon as a visual interpretation of what connects everyone. Newtown Junior Varsity Guard will begin at about 8:15 pm, followed by Newtown Varsity Guard at about 8:25 pm. There will be a senior recognition ceremony as well.

The public is invited to the event. Food (including pulled pork, kielbasa, taquitos, salad, snacks, and beverages), baked goods, candy, and air-grams will be available for purchase. Tickets will be $15 for adults, $10 for students and seniors, and $8 for children under age 10. Proceeds benefit the Newtown Band & Guard.

In addition, Newtown Percussion will be holding various fundraising activities throughout the next few months to help offset travel expenses to attend the WGI World Championship Competition in Dayton, Ohio in April 2019. To donate online, visit nhsbandguard.com/donate or mail donations to NHSBPC, c/o NHSWP 2019 Dayton Fundraiser, Box 3333, Newtown CT 06470. NHSBPC (Newtown High School Band Parent Corporation) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

For more information about winter guard and winter percussion, visit newtownbandandguard.weebly.com.