Coffeehouse 2025 Empowers Students

Photo courtesy of Holton Communications

Coffeehouse, an annual showcase of original artistic work, continued its impressive run in 2025. Mark Robinson, director of Theatrical Arts and co-producer of Coffeehouse, explained that Coffeehouse is intentionally set up like a cafe, complete with a stage and a coffee barista. Performers

sign up prior to the event and showcase their work.

The tradition of Coffeehouse began over 20 years ago with Mary Jane Pagenstecher, the school’s former director of Fine and Performing Arts. The Beebe Black Box Theater was

created for events such as PUNCH and Coffeehouse, where students can express themselves through multiple mediums in a cozy and welcoming environment.

Robinson’s favorite part of Coffeehouse is its ambiance. He shared, “When we set the Black Box up with all the decorations, it is such a beautiful space to be in.”

Robinson also observed that students can become caught up in the concept of performing an original piece. However, performers in the past have also created unique arrangements of existing songs to demonstrate the nuance and variety in Coffeehouse performances. Other forms of artistic expression at include poetry, comedy, choreography and play readings.

Sarah Roney, dance instructor and co-producer of Coffeehouse, expressed that she loves participating in “this event where community members get to share their creative ideas with an audience that is open and ready to support them.”

Ella Henderson ’26 took part in Coffeehouse for the first time this year by performing an original song called “The Lie,” which she both sang and played the piano to. She never had showcased her original work prior to Coffeehouse. Henderson stated, “I was actually

about to pull out, but Mr. Robinson and [Director of Chorus and Handbells Dr. Yee Von] Ng convinced me to stay in the program, and I am so glad that I did. I felt overwhelming sup-

port from all my friends and fellow performers as well as the audience members.”