By Sophie Higby
Begun in 1951, Step Sing is one of Samford’s oldest and most beloved traditions by students, faculty and the Birmingham community. It has been an annual tradition for decades and this year marks the 70th anniversary. However, in 2020, Step Sing was unable to happen due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
A large percentage of Samford students participate in Step Sing, whether it’s dancing in the show, creating props or directing a group. Each year, it unifies the students and allows them to meet new people and friends. When it was cancelled last year, many Samford students said they were upset.
However, Step Sing is on track to happen this year. While students said they are grateful for this good news, they are still uncertain as to how Step Sing will look compared to previous years.
In years past, each group has had six minutes to perform. This year, the length has been cut down to five minutes each. Many of the student directors have already created song lists, which is one of the most essential parts of the show. Due to the recent news, they are being forced to alter the already-made plans.
Students are also wondering how COVID-19 will affect the show and practices. In September, the administration held a meeting to discuss this issue, however, they said they do not want to make a call too early and will not give specifics until closer to the event.
Senior Janelle Woods is a student director of Spectrum, a group that is unique because it includes both genders in its performance.
“I love Step Sing, and I love being a part of it,” Woods said. “I think there will be a good amount of people that will want to do it just because we haven’t done it in so long.”
Even with the ambiguous guidelines, the Spectrum Step Sing group said they plan on following COVID-19 guidelines.
“I am just so excited. It’s going to be really fun,” Woods said.
Open signups have already begun, and closed groups like sororities and fraternities are in the process of choosing the schedule for their signups. Step Sing will be held at the Samford University Wright Center Jan. 27-29.
