The Black Knights Varsity Winterguard will officially kick off their 12th season on Saturday, January 18 as they travel to Central Square.
The team, under the direction of Lindsay Durham, assistant director Mathew Cress and instructors Joshua Frisbee, Jamie Mazur and Melissa Jackson will be performing their 2025 production titled, “STAN LEE.” The show pays tribute to the impact of Stan Lee’s famous comic book characters. The show is designed by James Gabonay and choreographed by Nicholas Gerling, both of Houston, Texas.
Performers in grades seven through 12 spin flags and rifles while dancing throughout the pages of a giant comic book. Four large ramps allow them to run right up off the page just like our favorite superheros coming to life. Musical selections include, “The Journey Not the Destination” by Max Richter, “Alone in a Crowd” by Jeff Beal, and “Heroes Listen” by Voices In Your Head, Alesso, Tove Lo, David Guetta, David Bowie.
“We are very excited to debut our 2025 show this weekend,” said Durham. “The design team brought us something really special this season and our performers are owning the challenge.”
Senior Rocco Jennings commented, “I'm confident in my team's ability to be a competitive force this season because each one of us has excelled at conquering countless challenges both in our personal lives as well of those put forth for us in the practice gym.” He added, “As an avid Marvel fan and the sole senior of the group, being able to perform a show about how anyone can be a hero with the people who have grown to be a second family, all while being able to carry on the legacy of Stan Lee's messages is priceless to me. I hope it inspires those who come see us perform to always strive to help those who need it most as it has for myself.”
The JV team begins their season next weekend with a trip to John C. Birdlebough High School in Phoenix, NY. Their show, “Let it Grow,” features the infectious and fun music from the movie the Lorax.
Both teams regular season continues throughout the winter with stops at Shenendehowa HS, ESM HS, Corning HS, CNS Jr. High, and Hamilton College before state championships on March 29 at CNS Jr. High.
On March 8, Rome will host 32 other winterguard teams from across the state at the 4th Annual Copper City Classic. Pre-sale tickets are available now from performers.
The Varsity team will also compete at two international events, the first on February 15 in Corning, NY and then on April 3 they will travel to Winterguard International World Championships in Dayton, Ohio. This will mark the first time Rome has sent a team to world championships and only the fourth appearance in its almost 50-year history from a Oneida County team.
For more information about the competitive season, upcoming fundraisers and more follow Rome Black Knights WInterguard on Facebook and Instagram.