[Live Blog] Penn State THON 2019: $10,621,683.76 FTK
Welcome the central hub of Onward State’s coverage of THON 2019. Follow along here for updates, pictures, videos, and more from the 47th annual Penn State IFC/Panhellenic Dance Marathon.
Be sure to follow @THONwardState, @OnwardState, and our Facebook Page for up-to-the-second coverage of everything going on inside the Bryce Jordan Center all weekend long.
Live Blog
Sunday, February 17
4:14 p.m. — Your THON 2019 total is $10,621,683.76!!! Thanks for hanging out with this weekend.
4:01 p.m. — Let’s review the weekend with a short video on the big screen.
4:00 p.m. — DANCERS, TAKE A SEAT! YOU DID IT!
You can see the disbelief and awe on the dancers’ faces as they sit for the first time in 46 hours.
3:58 p.m. — Just a few more minutes until the dancers sit. Let’s pass the time with some Zombie Nation.
3:53 p.m. — It’s the last line dance of THON. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE, GET YOURSELVES TO THE STAGE!
3:48 p.m. — The (Un)official Chant War of THON 2019 has begun. The noise in the BJC is deafening and the room has more life than when the weekend began.
3:46 p.m. — The Rockets wrapped up their (short) final performance with an emphatic “We Are” chant and the Nittany Lion by their sides.
3:45 p.m. — It’s a beautiful sight in the Bryce Jordan Center. No Sunday scaries here:
3:35 p.m. — Ever wanted to see a man in a Penn State hockey jersey dance and play the saxophone at the same time? Well, now ya have.
3:30 p.m. — There’s just something about the sound of 15,000 people singing at the top of their lungs…
The Rockets are blasting off to a new level and they’re taking the BJC with them.
3:24 p.m. — If you want to start a performance off on the right foot, start with some Cardi B.
3:19 p.m. — TAKE US HOME, ROCKETS!
3:13 p.m. — The BJC is READY for the final performance of THON, which is…?
3:01 p.m. — It’s not the last line dance yet, but this is the last time you’ll see the Dancer Relations Captains called to the stage. So, without further ado, DANCER RELATIONS CAPTAINS, TO THE STAGE!
2:54 p.m. — The crowd is turning its attention to the stage for a new, a cappella rendition of “Angels Among Us.”
2:28 p.m. — The Celebration of Life video playing on the big screen honors kids who are no longer with us. The entire BJC is arm-in-arm for this one.
2:25 p.m. — Emilia battled three different cancers in less than three years. She passed away at age 12 in May 2016. Hershey staffers packed the Damesheks car for them as they left the hospital. Around a week later, hundreds of people came to say good-bye at her funeral.
2:16 p.m. — Even after Emilia entered remission, the family “shaped every moment we could with her and with [our] family.” She was later diagnosed with a secondary cancer for which she needed a bone marrow transplant.
“Again, Four Diamonds was there for us.”
2:14 p.m. — The Damesheks were partnered with Club Gymnastics through Four Diamonds. “[Club Gymnastics] was really the perfect match for our family.” The family came to THON for the first time in February 2014.
2:10 p.m. — Emilia’s parents are sharing how they found out that Emilia had Ewing sarcoma. “Until that summer, we were pretty much your everyday, all-American family.”
Emilia went through double-digit rounds of chemotherapy and several surgeries during her fight.
2:07 p.m. — The Emilia Dameshek Family is the last family to speak during Family Hour.
1:53 p.m. — It’s time for the “Where Are They Now?” video, which gives an update on THON children who have beaten cancer.
1:50 p.m. — Bekah is now 13 years old and asking her mom to encourage everyone in the BJC to be there for others.
1:46 p.m. — After beating cancer once, Bekah relapsed when she was in third grade. Bekah and her mom would spend countless hours together figuring out the next steps. Still, they felt a community holding them up “when all they could do was fall.”
“We are so grateful for all that you do.”
1:41 p.m. — Bekah’s mom says that she “could write a book about this amazing organization.”
1:37 p.m. — Bekah Tuckey was diagnosed with cancer when she was five years old. She was sent to get tests at Hershey Medical Center, where she and her family were told that she had acute lymphoblastic leukemia. The center became the family’s home-away-from-home as she battled the disease.
1:23 p.m. — The Bekah Tuckey Family is up next. “We’ve got our army on stage and a whole ‘nother army out there, so thank you so much.”
1:21 p.m. — Michael thanked everyone is the BJC for “saving his life.”
He also had some advice for dancers: “Don’t stop when you’re tired. Stop when you’re done.”
1:18 p.m. — Michael was diagnosed with leukemia in August 2003. As he underwent treatment, Michael’s parents learned about Four Diamonds and THON. Michael’s father says he has “come full circle” from 15 years ago.
1:09 p.m. — The BJC bowl was silent as it listened to the family’s story before it erupted with love and support for Michael Palm and his loved ones.
1:05 p.m. — The Michael Palm Family will speak first today.
“So many battles have been waged and those battles are our inspiration.”
12:47 p.m. — All Four Diamonds families are now being honored during the annual Family Procession. Sound is erupting from every corner of the BJC as orgs support their families.
12:45 p.m. — This is Four Diamonds founder Charles Millard’s 42nd THON.
12:43 p.m. — It’s Family Hour in the BJC. For the next hour, we’ll see the faces and hear the stories of Four Diamonds families. As the Family Relations Director Lizzie DeMarshall said, they’re the “why” behind THON’s efforts.
12:31 p.m. — Welcome back, 2019 Dancer Relations Captains. To the stage!
12:26 p.m. — You’re up, 2018!
12:19 p.m. — Ignite! Electrify! We’re getting closer to this year’s line dance as 2017 Dancer Relations Captains take the stage.
12:12 p.m. — 2016 DR Captains, it’s your turn.
BLAST OFF
— Onward State (@OnwardState) February 17, 2019BJC pic.twitter.com/aTnyURq7Kk
12:10 p.m. — The 2015 Morale Captains Dancer Relations Captains are here!
12:01 p.m. — Morale Captains have arrived by time machine for the 2014 line dance, the first in a countdown to the current line dance.
Hey THON
— Onward State (@OnwardState) February 17, 2019Bust a move for the 2014 line dance. pic.twitter.com/Iy1f6GYa0k
12:00 p.m. — The clock keeps ticking and we’ve officially reached the Final Four hours of THON 2019.
11:52 a.m. — Alumni Association CEO Paul Clifford is in the house and ready to pick the final winner of the THON Raffle.
11:46 a.m. — Jason O and My Hero Zero are ready for a grand exit from THON. “We’re gonna do one more and then send you on your way.”
11:42 a.m. — The Nittany Lion is on the stage and jamming out with Jason. Sounds like a match made in heaven.
11:39 a.m. — It’s time for some “Sweet Caroline.” It feels (and sounds) like football season.
11:30 a.m. — Only My Hero Zero could make “Take Me Home, Country Roads” sound like a 2019 Top 40 hit.
11:26 a.m. — Hey, Jason, you know what would be impressive? If you played the guitar and the trumpet at the same time.
11:20 a.m. — “We’re gonna find out how loud you can sing right now.” Jason O is leading the arena in Katy Perry’s “Firework” and things are officially poppin’ off.
11:17 a.m. — THON’s missed you “Since U Been Gone,” Jason. We promise the awful musical puns will end soon.
11:13 a.m. — “This is absolutely our favorite show to play of the year.” My Hero Zero frontman Jason O is giving everyone in the band a chance to sing today.
11:07 a.m. — MHZ is rocking the house with “Shut Up and Dance” and Icona Pop’s “I Love It.” We haven’t seen the crowd this excited in awhile.
11:00 a.m. — MY HERO ZERO IS HERE! This will undoubtedly be a party. If My Hero Zero is here now, who will replace Go Go Gadjet in the final performance of THON?
10:46 a.m. — Andy Grammer’s “Good to Be Alive” is blasting through the speakers once again. Remember when he was here? Good times.
10:37 a.m. — We won’t be hearing this for much longer! Dancer Relations Captains, TO THE STAGE.
10:33 a.m. — Coach James Franklin is here (and he’s in his ~casual wear~)! “Very humbled to be a small part of this weekend. Very humbled to be a small part of this campus community.”
10:26 a.m. — Knepp closed out the Kids Fashion Show for 2019. The Final Four is getting closer and closer.
10:24 a.m. — Landon Knepp is up, down, left, and right for a surprise Fashion Show dance. Add this to the list of unannounced surprise THON performance!
10:15 a.m. — A’Niah Butler just dropped down into a split onstage. Is there anything this girl can’t do?
10:14 a.m. — Rockne Smith loves parkour and is bringing his best moves today.
10:10 a.m. — Mina Horan is serving lewks on the Kids Fashion Show stage. She just led the crowd in the cutest “We Are” chant you’ve ever heard.
10:04 a.m. — Are you ready for some adorable, tiny fashion? The Kids Fashion Show is underway. Philadelphia Eagles fans Ashlyn and Evan Brysiak are up first. Go Birds.
9:55 a.m. — Dancer Relations Captains, let’s get it.
9:31 a.m. — More THON Family Feud on the big screen! The first question is about…the beach?
9:10 a.m. — Alright, we spoke too soon. The T-shirts are thrown from the aisles. We’re all up to speed now.
9:06 a.m. — Car Race has returned to the bowl. Blue Car took the dub again.
8:58 a.m. — The Bucks County Bungee Jumpers are back by popular demand! Onward State Assistant Social Media Editor and Bungee Jumpers super-fan Anthony Fiset is unfortunately missing this performance. He’ll be pretty upset when he finds out.
8:53 a.m. — Things are beginning to shift in the Bryce Jordan Center. The upper level is filling up with people and a lower-level section was cleared out for Four Diamonds families:
Family seats are cleared and the Final Four is finally in sight
— Onward State (@OnwardState) February 17, 2019pic.twitter.com/Ds7EdkP2ZQ
8:48 a.m. — Dancer Relations Captains, to the stage!
8:32 a.m. — Another hour, another dance performance. This time, Ambitions is up.
8:16 a.m. — Singer Mary Jo almost gave away the time to the dancers, but she made up for it with a powerhouse rendition of “Havana.”
7:35 a.m. — You’re used to the color explosion that comes with every THON, but tutus and tie-dye socks weren’t in style a few decades ago. Take a look at some throwback THON garb:
7:30 a.m. — Good morning, Dancer Relations Captains. Let’s do this. To the stage!
7:23 a.m. — Supposedly, it’s T-shirt Time…but…we didn’t see any T-shirts in the air. Moving on.
7:18 a.m. — The Red Hotts (we finally got the band name) just led the crowd in a “We Are” chant after a fun morning performance.
7:13 a.m. — There’s no doubt that the BJC crowd knows the words to “Sugar, We’re Goin’ Down.” The lead singer of the mystery band is good at getting everyone to sing with her.
7:05 a.m. — Ba-dee-ya! Dancing in…February!
6:55 a.m. — Meanwhile, the nameless band is killing it with some Rihanna. “I need y’all to get a little crazy!”
6:53 p.m. — This is the first THON for hundreds in attendance this morning, but Ashley Otstott already knows the ins-and-outs of THON. Read about her mission at her 18th THON this morning:
6:42 a.m. — As the BJC begins to fill up again, the energy is picking up again, too. Morale is…in the middle.
6:25 a.m. — It’s never too early for some Stevie Wonder! A band just showed up on stage and started playing “Superstition” without announcing their name. Tell us, who is blessing us with Stevie right now?
It’s never too early for Stevie Wonder
— THONward State (@THONwardState) February 17, 2019pic.twitter.com/X5tYzytJMA
6:01 a.m. — Dancer Relations Captains. To. The. Stage.
5:45 a.m. — The Penn State Thespians are waking everyone up with “Zero to Hero” from Hercules. Again, DANCE FOR DISNEY.
5:40 a.m. — Bounce, Penn State’s first Asian dance organization, is here to slay. We’re loving their song choices.
5:37 a.m. — James McCoy Taylor really loves THON, but he played a short and soulful set this morning. Now, it’s time to for another water social. Chug, chug, chug!
5:34 a.m. — “I know I got kicked off The Bachelor, but…” James McCoy Taylor is on the BJC stage with a guitar and he is not bitter at all. No, really. He’s not. His girlfriend is watching live right now.
5:19 a.m. — We spent the last 10 minutes transfixed by the Burn Unit guitarist’s hair. Sorry.
5:09 a.m. — We “Believe In A Thing Called Love,” too, Burn Unit.
4:55 a.m. — “Stay hydrated, it’s important.” Is Burn Unit leading us in an impromptu water social?
4:45 a.m. — Easy come, easy go. Even if your voice sounds like you gargled batteries this weekend, sing out for Bohemian Rhapsody.
4:43 a.m. — It’s beginning to feel a lot like the Phyrst as Burn Unit rocks out to Tom Petty’s “American Girl.” But wait…it’s a mashup with the “Fresh Prince” theme song. I guess we’re in Philly now.
4:28 a.m. — Happy to have you here, Burn Unit.
4:20 a.m. — Another band is getting set up on the stage. Any guesses on the genre? Maybe some heavy metal? Polka?
4:01 a.m. — Let’s get it going right at 4 a.m.: DANCER RELATIONS CAPTAINS, TO THE STAGE!
3:56 a.m. — Update: Have you ever heard Sicko Mode on violin? In My Feelings? Havana? Alright, I’m done.
3:51 a.m. — Beyonce’s favorite violinist Emmanuel Houndo is putting a classical twist on some Penn State favorites this morning. Ever heard “Zombie Nation” or Post Malone’s “Congratulations” on violin?
3:45 a.m. — “Came Here for Love,” you say? How about a Valentine’s Day date?
3:33 a.m. — That was fun. Everyone on press row for Onward State got a nice stretch out of that last line dance.
3:25 a.m. — Dancer Relations Captains, TO THE STAGE!
3:19 a.m. — The group is wrapping up their set with Paramore’s “Ain’t It Fun.” Cover your ears, seniors, you won’t like the message behind this one.
3:09 a.m. — The Brass Cadillacs is doing the best they can to keep the energy up in these trying times. You don’t really have a choice when you get the 2 a.m. Sunday slot at THON.
3:06 a.m. — “I’ll be gooooooooone in a day or twoOoOoOoOoOo” is incredibly appropriate in this moment. Interpretation is up to you.
3:04 a.m. — Come on, Eileen. That is all.
3:00 a.m. — We are definitely in the wee hours of THON 2019. Oh boy, 3 a.m.!
2:52 a.m. — “Thank you all for what you’re doing tonight. I think it’s really special.” The Brass Cadillacs is comprised of State College locals who love the chance to be involved in THON.
2:50 a.m. — An Avril Lavigne comeback is happening at THON. This is not a drill (yes it is).
2:38 a.m. — “Shut Up and Dance” should just be Penn State’s new alma mater (kidding, relax). This song is always a crowdpleaser.
2:36 a.m. — YAS DANCE FOR DISNEY MUSIC
2:35 a.m. — Seven-piece band Brass Cadillacs opened strong on the BJC stage with “1985” by Bowling For Soup and “Everybody Talks” by Neon Trees. These performances are beginning to blend together, but the lead singer’s rainbow tutu definitely stands out.
2:06 a.m. — One of the dancers found a Spongebob plushie on the floor (lucky her) and came onstage for the water social. How fitting!
1:49 a.m. — Welcome back to the THON stage, Volé! So much beauty. So much grace. How do they do it at this hour?
1:40 a.m. — A musical duet from Apollo are on the stage playing their versions of Axwell & Ingrosso’s “Dreamer” and “Forever” by Chris Brown.
1:26 a.m. — “Whooooooooooa, we’re (more than) halfway there!” Hopefully this Bon Jovi classic doesn’t tip off the dancers.
1:18 a.m. — Well,
1:16 a.m. — The entire BJC is jamming out to “The Cupid Shuffle” right now. Could this be a new World Record, too?
1:03 a.m. — ZBT is playing THON Family Feud as the cleaning continues. But…where’s Steve Harvey?
12:55 a.m. — Meanwhile, our cleanly gorilla friend is still up to no good on the floor.
12:52 a.m. — CAR RACE IS BACK! Much like Penn State basketball, the red car showed signs of a comeback, but ultimately fell short. The score is now 2-0-1 with the blue car in the lead.
12:49 a.m. — There appears to be a man in a gorilla mask on the zamboni cleaning the floor. He’s playing with a soccer ball found in the middle section. We are captivated.
12:40 a.m. — Crowd entertainment reps are in the crowd for sports and pop culture trivia. “Which person has a horse fly named after them?” seems like a strange place to start the pop culture quiz, but sure!
12:34 a.m. — Time to get clean. OPP is on the floor mopping up…a LOT of Gatorade bottles. Glad to know the dancers are getting their electrolytes.
12:22 a.m. — Dancer Relations Captains, to the stage! This is the first line dance of the day.
12:17 a.m. — “What’s going on” this morning, THON? The Corner Brothers close with 4 Non Blondes’ “What’s Up.”
12:09 a.m. — The Corner Brothers may be good singers, but the BJC crowd is better. “Africo” by Toto and “Paino Man” has the room swaying to and fro.
12:03 a.m. — In the words of Adam Levine, “THONing slow on Sunday morning,” right? Welcome to the final day of THON 2019!
Saturday, February 16
11:49 p.m. — Roth concludes her brief midnight set with “Friendly,” her first single under a freshly signed record label.
11:42 p.m. — Country singer/songwriter Riley Roth shared an original song called “Bad Together” with all of us. Now, she’s flexing her vocal range on “The Middle” by Zedd, Maren Morris, and Grey.
11:35 p.m. — Whiplash, one of Penn State’s top hip-hop dance crews, brought its signature flare to the Four Diamonds stage and pumped some life into this late-night BJC crowd.
11:26 p.m. — Now, he’s performing an original song that he wrote after My Hero Zero’s THON 5K concert called “Holding Out Hope.” He dedicated the song to the entire THON community that has supported him and his work through all of the years.
11:23 p.m. — Scratch that. He also has…a kazoo?
11:22 p.m. — Jason O from My Hero Zero is on stage alone with just a microphone, an electric drum set, an electric acoustic guitar, and a sound board of some sort. Now he’s crafting a beat from the bottom up, and it’s a certified bop.
11:09 p.m. — It’s unofficially step dance hour at the BJC, as a few other groups performed their routines and made step fans out of all of us.
10:55 p.m. — Alpha Phi Alpha took to the stage for a quick step routine.
10:47 p.m. — Dancer Relations Captains, to the stage! We’re still upset Mason Ramsey didn’t make an appearance during his verse while he was in the building.
10:44 p.m. — The Giant THON Game Show is back. This time, categories are internet memes, musicians, Penn State football, and Greek organizations.
10:06 p.m. — After the Bungee Jumpers awe-inspiring performance, Shevy is back on stage to finish blowing the roof off the BJC. This time, his mix starts with the version of “Sweet Victory” that we have deserved ever since that flawed Super Bowl halftime show.
9:54 p.m. — IT’S TIME. The Bucks County Bungee Jumpers are on the stage. I repeat, the Bucks County Bungee Jumpers are on the stage.
9:49 p.m. — Dancer Relations Captains, to the stage!
9:42 p.m. — At the end of the day, football couldn’t fend off the dynasty. Men’s gymnastics swept the judges’ vote en route to its third-straight Pep Rally title. Honestly, it was never really close.
9:36 p.m. — Your Pep Rally 2019 finalists are the reigning champs, men’s gymnastics, and fan-favorite, football.
9:33 p.m. — Women’s volleyball concluded the preliminary round with a chic hip-hop dance that started with a SpongeBob remix. Unfortunately, it wasn’t enough to land it a spot in the finals.
9:30 p.m. — After women’s hockey, the football team broke it down to a hip-hop mix that wasn’t afraid of a little NSYNC.
9:23 p.m. — Men’s golf also came out strong with Kanye West on its mix and a crowd-pleasing shower of dollar bills. We’re sure Sandy Barbour was all about those dollar dollar bills, y’all.
9:20 p.m. — Men’s tennis followed with an impressive, multi-person worm that set a world record, probably.
9:17 p.m. — Women’s lacrosse committed to the bold strategy of Latin-inspired music and Fortnite dances. We’ll see how this pays off.
9:15 p.m. — Men’s fencing chose a fan-favorite in “Gold Digger,” but its flip-less break down probably didn’t help it stand out much in the eyes of the judges.
9:12 p.m. — Figure skating learned from the successes of powerhouses like men’s gymnastics by incorporating flips into its own routine. If you can’t beat them, join them.
9:10 p.m. — Women’s soccer threw it back to the early 2000s with their mix, but it was not enough to establish the girls as a contender this year.
9:07 p.m. — Men’s swimming proved itself a legitimate contender for the throne with a creative number involving air swimming and colorful tights. If you take a swing at the king, you better not miss. Men’s swimming did not miss.
9:05 p.m. — After the champs, women’s golf gave its best swing at a Beyoncé dance mix, but unfortunately, not even the queen could will it over men’s gymnastics.
9:03 p.m. — Finally, the moment we have all been waiting for — the reigning champs commanded the stage with their choreographed acrobatics and impressive displays of upper-body strength. That was a tough act to follow.
9:01 p.m. — Women’s fencing did their best hip-hop routine despite a glaring disadvantage in team-size with only six dancers.
8:59 p.m. — Next, men’s rugby pulled a page from the men’s soccer playbook by ripping off their longer shorts to reveal a pair of shorter shorts in the middle of their dance number.
8:56 p.m. — Next up was Field Hockey, dancing to Lady Gaga’s complete discography in a performance that left something to be desired.
8:53 p.m. — Men’s soccer followed, doing flips in just tank-tops. Surprisingly, they kept more clothes on than anyone expected after last year’s performance, so at least it was a little bit more FTK.
8:49 p.m. — The first team of the night, women’s gymnastics kicked things off with a well-cheographed hip-hop dance number complete with velour jumpsuits
8:47 p.m. — Mike Gesicki joined his friend Landon Knepp on stage to talk about THON, his role in Landon’s journey, and most importantly, to get things started with a “We Are” chant.
8:45 p.m. — Miss Pennsylvania Kayla Repasky, the Blue Sapphire Gillian Brooks, Alumni Association President Paul Clifford, and Athletic Director Sandy Barbour are the judges for tonight’s competition.
8:40 p.m. — Well, it wasn’t James Franklin. The first ever Pep Rally White Out is presented by the Alumni Association.
8:33 p.m. — “THON, I have one question for you. Are you ready for Pep Rally 2019?!”
8:23 p.m. — As is tradition, the Blue Band kickstarts Pep Rally with a symphony of fight songs while the Blue Sapphire and company show their ever-impressive baton-twirling skills. Too bad it doesn’t count towards the competition, or men’s gymnastics would be sweating right now.
8:17 p.m. — Folks, that wasn’t even close. Shevy’s seamless transitions through a diverse discography that spanned from Kanye West to Soulja Boy had the crowd chanting his name by the end. Fortunately, the DJs put their competition aside and joined forces on an encore that put the BJC’s structural integrity to the test.
8:04 p.m. — And on the left DJ table is Shevy, starting strong with a SpongeBob sample — “Are you ready kids?!”
8:00 p.m. — In the meantime, THON is passing out official Pep Rally White Out shirts. We’re not sure why, but James Franklin must be behind this somehow.
7:58 p.m. — As a part of the Pep Rally opening ceremonies, Dosk and a DJ-to-be-named are facing off in a battle of the beats.
7:55 p.m. — Before Pep Rally officially gets underway, we ask, “Can anyone defeat the powerhouse that is men’s gymnastics?”
7:49 p.m. — Dancer Relations Captains, to the stage for one last Line Dance before Pep Rally.
7:47 p.m. — The grand finale of the THON Kids’ Talent Show was Devin Pulaski’s rendition of “Roar” by Katie Perry, featuring special guests the Nittany Lion and a cute baby roaring in a tiger onesie. Devin’s adorable act reminded us that we are all winners in the THON Talent Show.
7:42 p.m. — The well-dressed trio of Garret, Hunter, and Corban Shover followed with their cover of ZZ Top’s “Sharp Dressed Man,” which made all of the girls go crazy for obvious reasons.
7:37 p.m. — McKenna Speed lightened the mood inside the BJC with her rendition of “Smile” from the broadway hit Annie. Sure enough, it made everyone in the stands do just that.
7:35 p.m. — Next, Joyce Ortiz performed a powerful, original rap song with heavy, Trippie Redd-influenced melodies and sobering verses on the subject of pediatric cancer.
7:30 p.m. — Josiah Garcia’s hip-hop dance number came next and checked all of the boxes for an instant fan-favorite. Namely, the Fortnite dance moves box. There’s no doubt that Josiah’s breakdowns inspired the dancers to keep going, as THON presses on.
7:26 p.m. — Paula Engel-Herbert followed, dedicating her performance of “Set It All Free” from the movie Sing! to “all of those who shape the moment.” Her amazing vocals and hula-hooping background dancer stole the audience’s hearts.
7:20 p.m. — Next, gridiron all-star A’Niah Butler showed off her gymnastics moves with a floor routine to “Happier” by Marshmello feat. Bastille.
7:17 p.m. — Savannah Kennen, accompanied by a chorus of her best friends, followed with a moving performance of Avril Lavigne’s “Head Above Water.”
7:15 p.m. — Emily Robinson is live on stage, singing Carrie Underwood’s “Champion.” The crowd loved Emily’s performance, which was not overshadowed by her background dancers lip-singing Ludacris’ verse.
7:10 p.m. — Christopher Moore followed Asher’s fire beats with an original choreography to Imagine Dragons’ “Believer,” putting all of his moves on display.
7:06 p.m. — Asher Parham is up next, beatboxing an original mix. Asher’s beats were clearly inspired by “The Emperor’s March” from Star Wars and the late Michael Jackson, which sent the crowd into a frenzy.
7:02 p.m. — Kaitlyn Good is a small boat on the Four Diamonds Stage ocean with a moving rendition of Rachel Platton’s “Fight Song” and a heartfelt thank you to all of those who make THON possible.
6:58 p.m. — Next, Sarah Zeisloft channeled her inner Zac Efron with the signature High School Musical dance number to “Get’cha Head In The Game.”
6:52 p.m. — Following Connor’s sweet moves is the power group of Rockne Smith, Brody Smith, Zoe Teter, and Ben Mendez singing “High Hopes” by Panic! At The Disco.
6:51 p.m. — Connor Rowan is next with an interpretive dance number to “Believer” by Imagine Dragons.
6:44 p.m. — Calliope had the crowd rolling with space-themed jokes between intense piano riffs. Her unique blend of comedy and drama enthralled the primetime THON crowd. She’s a true show-stopper.
6:42 p.m. — Up next is the multi-talented Calliope Silbaugh, who will be playing “Astronaut Wannabe” on the keyboard while telling jokes at the same time.
6:40 p.m. — Carly Wilfong follows with a jump rope/dance number to One Direction’s “Best Song Ever.” The Bucks County Bungee Jumpers may want to give this girl an audition because she has moves!
6:35 p.m. — Brennan, a young Kenny G, earns a huge ovation and an emphatic response to his “We are” chant.
6:32 p.m. — Jackson Brennan is next, dedicating his saxophone solo to his sister who has been cancer free since July! Brennan is covering “Uptown Funk” by Bruno Mars on everyone’s favorite woodwind.
6:27 p.m. — Caleb Deckman and his father are up next, rocking out to Beaver Stadium classics like “Sweet Caroline,” “Seven Nation Army,” and “Livin’ On A Prayer.” Caleb on the drums and his dad on the guitar are an undeniable rock duo.
6:20 p.m. — The song is actually a THON remix of Keala Settle’s original piece, featuring lyrics like, “For the dance, for the cure, for the families, the fight, for the kids.”
6:12 p.m. — It’s time for the Kids Talent Show! Up first is a group of Four Diamonds Families and music therapists from Hershey Medical Center performing “This is Me” from The Greatest Showman.
6:05 p.m. — We think the Mason Ramsey bit will get love from the crowd for the rest of THON. Speaking of Mason Ramsey, what did Twitter think of his performance?
6:03 p.m. — It appears there is someone on the floor in front of the stage helping the little line dance leaders with the choreography. *swoon*
6:01 p.m. — Dancer Relations Captains, to the stage! The future line dance leaders are back, too.
5:52 p.m. — Sabol is offering a few practice paintings away to THON attendees! All you have to do is message him on Instagram and tell him what THON means to you for a chance to win. Dibs on the Saquon painting.
5:49 p.m. — It’s Saquon! Sabol held up his near finished painting of the beloved Penn Stater to applause from the room.
5:44 p.m. — Cody Sabol is still squiggling away with his paintbrushes on the stage. An orange blog is slowly evolving on his canvas. Stay tuned.
5:38 p.m. — We have some…painting…happening on the stage?
5:35 p.m. — Do you ever forget a song exists and then, all of a sudden, you remember every sing lyric, riff, and guitar solo? Us too, all THON long.
5:33 p.m. — Mason Ramsey’s gone now, but his set left the BJC with new afternoon energy.
5:27 p.m. — Dancer Relations Captains, to the stage! Mason Ramsey’s clip gets a big roar from the BJC. Gee, I wonder why…
5:19 p.m. — And as mysteriously as he came, he left. The audience wants an encore.
5:17 p.m. — “You all know what I’m going to be singing now.” IT’S “FAMOUS,” IT’S “FAMOUS,” IT’S “FAMOUS!”
5:10 p.m. — “This song’s for all the ladies.” Oh, OKAY, Mason Ramsey.
5:08 p.m. — Ramsey’s performing an original number to a sea of phone flashlights. We’re all in our feels.
5:07 p.m. — lOok aT hIs LItTle CowBoY bOOts
5:05 p.m. — It’s (un)officially Yodeling Hour at the BJC. Ramsey is guitar-less for this next number.
5:02 p.m. — Does this sound familiar? A clip of Ramsey’s viral performance of “Lovesick Blues” is in the dance break of this year’s line dance:
5 p.m. — This blogger doesn’t know most of the songs Mason Ramsey is singing, but his rendition “I Saw the Light” by Hank Williams has the crowd in a groove. Yee — and let me be clear about this — haw.
4:51 p.m. — The crowd is shaking with anticipation. We’ve never seen so many phones up at one time.
4:50 p.m. — Scratch that. Viral Walmart yodeler Mason Ramsey has joined us at the BJC!
4:41 p.m. — After another rousing round of “Baby Shark”, we’ve seemed to hit a bit of a lull in the BJC. However, the org letters in the stands continue to bounce. We’ll update you on this situation as more information becomes available.
4:12 p.m. — Dancer Relations Captains,…you know what to do.
4:09 p.m. — The Homecoming Executive Committee is on the stage to reveal the Homecoming 2019 theme. For its 100th year, Homecoming will embrace a “Century of Stories.”
3:56 p.m. — KPMD, a K-Pop dance crew, is performing now. Nothing like some K-Pop to get the people going.
3:51 p.m. — Dance troupe Outcast has taken the stage, putting on an exciting performance to heavy electronic dance music.
3:34 p.m. — It seems like a good time for friendly game of “Where’s Waldo?”
3:15 p.m. — Kids’ Mail Call time! THON families will be making their way to the stage via the human tunnel.
3:02 p.m. — Dancer Relations Captains, to the stage!
2:54 p.m. — CHUG! CHUG! CHUG! Water social time, baby!
2:45 p.m. — Attendees just worked together to pass different parts of a sandwich around the crowd (?), ultimately creating a finished sandwich. We’re just as confused as you probably are.
2:37 p.m. — We’ve got our first official t-shirt toss of THON. Get ready to throw some elbows, folks.
2:23 p.m. — OPP is stealing the show, yet again, with some great cleaning techniques.
2:17 p.m. — In a shocking turn of events, we have a tie in the car race despite what seemed to be a win for the blue car. We’d like to see a replay.
2:12 p.m. — THON CAR RACE TIME!
2:00 p.m. — The family of Courtney O’Bryan, a former member of Sigma Tau Delta, is speaking to the crowd about their loss of Courtney after the car she was in slipped on black ice and she suffered fatal injuries on a canning trip in Buffalo.
1:54 p.m. — Dancer Relations Captains, you know what to do.
1:53 p.m. — You’re really never too far away to be tuned into THON. Just ask Tim Feng.
1:42 p.m. — If you need a mental break, heading to the Crowd Engagement Booth to play some games may be in your best interest.
1:33 p.m. — It’s time for some haircuts #FTK! Volunteers are undergoing flow chops in front of our very eyes on stage.
1:22 p.m. — Whiplash Dance Team rounded out the showcase performances, putting on a routine to a number of upbeat, electronic hits.
1:19 p.m. — Lauren Purcell performed second, covering Bon Iver’s “Skinny Love,” and doing so beautifully.
1:14 p.m. — It’s time for some THON Showcase action. Hailey Burbage, a Penn State Beaver student, kicks off the performances with her showcase-winning dance routine to “Angel By The Wings” by Sia.
1:06 p.m. — Dancer Relations Captains, to the stage!
1:01 p.m. — Henkels ended his set with a cover of “A Million Miles” by Ziv Zaifman. Henkels has now made eight-straight THON performances.
12:47 p.m. — All-U Hour kicks off, featuring backyard sports games which will be available on the floor. All we know about Backyard Sports is that you have to play as Pablo Sanchez.
12:37 p.m. — Cillo closes his set with “Tightrope” by Walk The Moon. Cillo kept it short and sweet, and the crowd was very much into the whole performance.
12:32 p.m. — Jason Cillo, a former dancer for Apollo, performs a solo acoustic set at THON for the third-straight year. He starts off the show with a cover of Blink-182’s “I Miss You.”
12:30 p.m. — Kerry Benningoff, a Pennsylvania State Representative and Chairman of House Cancer Caucus, thanked the crowd for all of its efforts in battling childhood cancer.
12:22 p.m. — Given the THON-induced delirium and exhaustion throughout the BJC, the concourse is a great place to hear some funny one-liners.
12:18 p.m. — The Dance Marathon Alumni Group, or DMAG, takes the stage to shout out the Alumni Dancers. Paul Clifford, the CEO of the Penn State Alumni Association, follows up with a high-energy speech.
12:07 p.m. — Dancer Relations Captians, TO. THE. STAGE.
12:02 p.m. — Folks, we’re officially into Saturday afternoon territory.
11:56 a.m. — Redding finishes his set with two bops, as promised — Estelle’s “American Boy” and Britney Spears’ “…Baby One More Time.”
11:38 a.m. — Next on stage is Cole Redding, a singer/songwriter from Philadelphia — not to be confused with Cool Runnings, the Disney cult-classic film about the Jamaican bobsled team.
11:29 a.m. — Happy Alumni Hour! Activities like Jenga, Connect Four, tic tac toe, giant ping pong, musical dots (whatever that is), and photo ops with the Nittany Lion are spread around the dance floor.
11:11 a.m. — Restrictions on traditional fundraising methods such as canning and canvassing have forced orgs like Club Water Polo to get more creative.
10:52 a.m. — Dancer Relations Captains, to the stage!
10:46 a.m. — After all of those words of endearment for THON, the Island Fever dance group is on stage to bring us back to our regularly scheduled program of rhythm and good vibes.
10:30 a.m. — The four governing councils of Greek Life are sharing their perspectives on THON, as Greek Hour 2019 winds down at the Bryce Jordan Center.
10:10 a.m. — Now, the Mina Horan family is on stage to share their experience with Four Diamonds, the Hershey Medical Center, and their ‘extended family’ — Phi Sigma Rho and Phi Sigma Kappa.
9:58 a.m. — Pediatric cancer survivor and current Penn State student, Nick Vicidomini, is on stage to talk about how THON saved his life in more ways than one.
9:45 a.m. — It is now Greek Hour at THON 2019. Unfortunately, there won’t be any tzatziki sauce, but Kappa Sigma, Phi Kappa Psi, and Alpha Xi Delta will be doing their Greek Sing-winning performance of “Holes.”
9:36 a.m. — Looking to test your THON knowledge? Take our quiz!
9:29 a.m. — Dancer Relations Captions, to the stage! Maybe we’ll get it right this time.
9:22 a.m. — THON’s Jeopardy-style game show is back — this time with special interest org competitors.
9:17 a.m. — Lowjack went back to the classics to finish off its set with a beautiful rendition of Neil Diamond’s “Sweet Caroline.”
9:05 a.m. — After a loaded setlist of rock covers capped off by “Mr. Brightside,” Lowjack is performing an original song called “One Last Kiss.”
8:57 a.m. — While Lowjack continues to rock out this morning, Zeta Beta Tau’s Bryce Starner is 15 hours into his second stint as a dancer.
8:24 a.m. — Lowjack, a Phyrst-favorite, is waging all-out war on the morning lull with an electric fiddle and a setlist of classic rock jams.
8:16 a.m. — This brief morning lull is the perfect opportunity to check out all of the signs decorating the lower bowl of the Bryce Jordan Center.
8:06 a.m. — Now that we’ve reached daylight hours, here are some tips to keep your eyes open.
8:02 a.m. — D-D-D-Dancer Relations Captains, to the stage!
7:54 a.m. — Governor Tom Wolf is making a special video announcement to express his pride in all of those who THON. Top of the morning to you, governor.
7:51 a.m. — In a twist to the traditional water social, two lucky dancers who found the hidden SpongeBob stuffed animals on the floor got to come on stage to lead the chug.
7:50 a.m. — Here’s what THON spectators are keeping on their person this year.
7:43 a.m. — MAIL CALL! Mike the Mailman is on the stage to help announce the package pickup details to the dancers.
7:36 a.m. — Dancer Relations Captains, you know where the stage is. Go there now!
7:32 a.m. — Tapestry Dance Company is here to revitalize the crowd after an emotional tribute from the Penn State Sign Language Organization.
7:24 a.m. — The Penn State Sign Language Organization will now perform an interpretation of original song “Fly Away,” by their THON child who passed away in 2017.
7:13 a.m. — It’s “Logo Hour” on the floor of the BJC, but we don’t see any signs of Jerry West.
7:05 a.m. — The Singing Lions are taking the stage now at THON 2019. They’ll perform in honor of their THON child, who “gained her angel wings” in December.
6:49 a.m. — DANCER RELATIONS CAPTAINS, TO THE STAGE!
6:42 a.m. — “Thank you all for your assistance with this mopping.” Phew, finally!
6:15 a.m. — Oh wow, it’s Crowd Entertainment’s “Finish the Lyrics” competition. If you don’t know Breakin’ Free, R&R is about to escort you out of the BJC.
6:09 a.m. — Blue Car wins, baby. The rivalry lives on.
6:04 a.m. — THE CAR RACE IS BACK!
5:54 a.m. — OPP is about to mop the floor for the first time this weekend. It truly does not get any better than this.
5:33 a.m. — DANCER RELATIONS CAPTAINS! TO! THE! STAGE! The regular line dance leader was back this time after a few rough go-arounds during her sleep shift.
5:27 a.m. — This Snapchat filter at THON is not very FTK. Explain yourselves, Durex.
5:25 a.m. — Cold Spring Union’s long set draws to a close, and the Line Dance hype is palpable.
5:17 a.m. — THON’s new augmented reality app lets the kids at Hershey Medical Center and all of those who can’t make it to the BJC experience THON like never before.
5:11 a.m. — This new Jeopardy-style game show is great and all, but what happened to the car race?!
4:58 a.m. — Nothing beats a meal with live entertainment. The dancers are rocking out to Cold Spring Union while filling up on carbs.
4:50 a.m. — Don’t let Cold Spring Union’s set distract you from the fact that THON once sponsored a virtual fundraiser on the bizarre, online simulator, Second Life.
4:44 a.m. — If you’ve ever wondered why they don’t just play a recording of the Line Dance to make it easier on everyone, we finally got the answer.
4:31 a.m. — Cold Spring Union’s dueling guitar riffs sent a jolt of energy into the crowd, and they’re letting the good times roll with “Sweet Home Alabama.”
4:27 a.m. — Cold Spring Union’s blend of American rock and country roads is here to wake the Bryce Jordan Center up before dawn.
4:20 a.m. — One of the newest additions to THON 2019 is a video monitor in the concourse, playing a tribute to all of those who have been affected by THON.
4:02 a.m. — Dancer Relations Captains, to the stage! Just seven minutes too early.
3:55 a.m. — PSUkelele’s symphony of ukuleles has transformed the BJC into a beach with its mellow, acoustic jams.
3:39 a.m. — We hope ya still like jazz because it’s Penn State Dance Alliance’s specialty, and they’re on stage next.
3:36 a.m. — After some funky, beat-driven remixes, Fratoni went fully acoustic to finish off his set with “Over My Head” by The Fray.
3:27 a.m. — THON icon Jeremy Fratoni is on stage with his keyboardist and handy beat-maker. This set should be good.
3:20 a.m. — Addie Lindberg’s lone song was beautiful, but sadly, it lacked the dietary advice that we all desperately need.
3:16 a.m. — Buckle up, folks. Our next act is a nutrition major AND a guitar soloist.
3:12 a.m. — The Beverage Captains played a wonderful, low-budget, Aquaman-inspired video to introduce this early morning water social. Bottoms up, dancers.
3:04 a.m. — The line dance went off, but not without a few hitches, as a couple lines accidentally got skipped this time around.
3:00 a.m. — It’s best time to be at THON. If only the dancers knew…
2:58 a.m. — The Dancer Relation Captains are back on the stage in the wee hours of the morning, and we’re still falling for the “Sicko Mode” intro.
2:53 a.m. — South Paw finishes off its set, and that will conclude the 2 a.m. hour.
2:50 a.m. — Clouds of white are rising from the floor, as the crisp, delicious scent of baby powder is wafting through the air. That can only mean one thing — it’s Slides of Strength time!
2:44 a.m. — After claiming the left side of the BJC has been louder than the right side, South Paw is now holding a singing contest between the two halves.
2:40 a.m. — South Paw after performing the Drake & Josh theme song: “If you did not know what that song was, you had a miserable childhood.”
2:34 a.m. — South Paw is now playing the most contemporary piece of its set so far: “Closer” by The Chainsmokers.
2:31 a.m. — The jacket has been moved, but it’s still lying on the stage. Nevertheless, South Paw presses on with crowd-favorite “Stacey’s Mom.”
2:17 a.m. — The bass player’s jacket is still lying helplessly on stage. Who can say where the road goes, poor jacket.
2:01 a.m. — South Paw’s bassist/backup vocalist just strutted to the center of the stage to shed his Michael Jackson-esque red leather jacket and take the lead on Weezer’s “Beverly Hills.”
1:56 a.m. — The midnight lull is finally over, as State College’s own South Paw is on stage to perform all of the throwbacks from “your old iPod from high school” — we think they may have the wrong generation.
1:29 a.m. — The THON History Captains have commandeered the stage to host a trivia game show.
1:15 a.m. — Dancer Relations Captains, to the stage!
1:11 a.m. — An EDM remix of “Fireflies” by Owl City is the most fitting way for Kalicade to end its complete emotional rollercoaster of a set.
1:05 a.m. — It took seven hours, but we finally have our first “Zombie Nation” of the weekend.
12:56 a.m. — As the old cover band saying goes, “When in doubt, play Earth, Wind & Fire.” If you didn’t know any better, you’d think THON was on September 21.
12:53 a.m. — We have just been informed of the official spelling: Kalicade. The group is revitalizing the crowd with its unconventional pop remixes, but we have to question their decision to make the mics on the vocalist and the drums the same exact volume.
12:50 a.m. — This next group combines pop, hip-hop, and EDM with just a singer, drummer, and a DJ. We have no clue how to spell their name, but they are ELECTRIC.
12:37 a.m. — It’s seventh inning stretch time in the BJC. Time to limber up.
12:33 a.m. — Dancers, eat fresh. Hospitality is now serving subway subs and apples.
12:27 a.m. — Dancer Relations Captains, to the stage for the first time on Saturday morning!
12:24 a.m. — In an unexpected turn of events, two dudes are breaking it down to a Dora-inspired bop.
12:21 a.m. — RAM Squad is back on stage to redo their “Fresh Prince Of Bel Air” number after technical difficulties plagued their first attempt.
12:18 — SDT and Pi Kappa Sigma dedicated a moving performance of Andra Day’s “Rise Up” to their THON children.
12:14 a.m. — Welcome to day two, dancers and spectators.
Friday, February 15
11:54 p.m. — The Phi Mu Alpha Dance Band hit the stage for a brassy performance. Ya like jazz?
11:50 p.m. — As you could imagine, Penn Staters took to Twitter to express their feelings about the 2019 THON line dance.
11:38 p.m. — It’s time for the GIANT THON GAMESHOW. This better be as large as they are making it out to be.
*Editor’s note: The gameshow is sponsored by Giant.
11:30 p.m. — Dancer Relations Captains, to the stage!
11:23 p.m. — No Bad Juju is still going strong, but we’re trying to figure out what the band’s logo is exactly. Is it a crab? An inkblot test? Is that what juju looks like?
11:15 p.m. — If you’re willing to spend $5 on a raffle ticket, you can give yourself the chance to win a Dell tablet, tickets to see The Chainsmokers at the BJC in September, or even a $4,000 trip to the destination of your choice.
11:07 p.m. — GIRLS HIT YOUR HALLELUJAH (HOOO).
Don’t believe me ~just watch~.
10:59 p.m. — No Bad Juju is still going strong, blessing the BJC with a cover of the Jackson 5’s “I Want You Back.” Don’t be surprised if you hear this song covered at least 10 more times by Sunday afternoon.
10:57 p.m. — It feels absolutely necessary to share the cuteness in these pictures right now.
Why we stand
— Onward State (@OnwardState) February 16, 2019
10:46 p.m. — Are you looking for your org in the BJC? We’ve got the definitive guide to figuring out exactly where you need to go.
10:34 p.m. — No Bad Juju, a dynamic eight-piece ensemble with a wide range in covers, took the stage. The band kicked off proceedings with Bruno Mars’ “24K Magic.”
10:32 p.m. — If you’re into Big Tech like Snapchat, make sure to check out the filters that will be available all weekend.
10:23 p.m. — THON donation stations are all decked out like superheroes this year. Not only do these stations accept donations, but they also act as information booths.
10:12 p.m. — A number of athletics programs tweeted to show support for THON on Friday night.
10:04 p.m. — DANCER RELATIONS CAPTAINS,,,go to the stage please.
9:59 p.m. –– We’re keeping the live performances going, this time with Rince na Leon, a Penn State Irish Dance Club. The troupe performed an upbeat dance to Fergie’s “A Little Party Never Killed Nobody.”
9:53 p.m. — Urban Dance Troupe has taken the stage to some ~groovy~ tunes.
9:52 p.m. — There’s just something about watching people break pieces of wood that’s endlessly entertaining. Club Tae Kwon Do, you never disappoint.
9:48 p.m. — Club Tae Kwon Do takes the stage. If its 2018 performance is anything to go by, we are in for quite a treat.
9:37 p.m. — Olivia Farabaugh, a former contestant on The Voice and a Central PA native, took the stage with Penn State alum Travis Aughenbaugh on the cajon. Farabaugh performed a wide range of music, ending with an acoustic cover of Young MC’s “Bust A Move.” That’s powerful.
9:32 p.m. — Are you wondering how you can donate to THON while its in full swing at the BJC? It’s never too late to show your support for pediatric cancer research by using the options outlined below.
9:25 p.m. — It’s American theme hour, so THON participants can show some patriotic spirit by sending letters to service members overseas, among other activities.
9:24 p.m. — It’s getting late enough in the night that your phone is losing its battery. Luckily for you, AT&T has provided a few charging stations located around the BJC.
9:17 p.m. — Dancer Relations Captains, to the STAGEEE!
9:12 p.m. — Andy Grammer’s set is over, but it certainly didn’t disappoint. His hit songs and high energy were perfect for a Friday night THON performance.
9:07 p.m. –– Andy Grammer was about to walk off the stage, only to deke the audience out and come back to perform a solo rendition of Snow Patrol’s “Chasing Cars.” Andy, why you got us cryin’ in the BJC right now?
9:00 p.m. — Nah, nah, honey I’m good. Very good, in fact. Thank you, Andy. Please stay.
8:54 p.m. — Even the Nittany Lion is taking part in the musical festivities.
8:51 p.m. — *screams at the top of lungs* YOU GOTTA KEEP YOUR HEAD UP!!
8:42 p.m. — The Penn State community welcomed Andy Grammer’s performance. After all, you just have to love a man who can melt some faces with a wicked trumpet solo.
— THONward State (@THONwardState) February 16, 2019
8:29 p.m. — Andy Grammer included “Spaceship” in his set, a song written in memory of his late mother who he lost to cancer. Grammer said that he’d sing the song to his daughter while his wife was pregnant.
8:21 p.m. — Grammer is pulling out the hits in his THONcert performance.
8:12 p.m. — Andy Grammer is not just a one-trick pony.
8:07 p.m. — It feels good to be alive right about now!
8:00 p.m. — ANDY GRAMMER HAS TAKEN THE STAGE!
7:55 p.m. — Now is probably a good time to remind everyone not to let the dancers know what time it is.
7:49 p.m. — DANCER RELATIONS CAPTAINS, TO THE STAGE!
7:45 p.m. — The cast of Star Wars takes the stage to kick off Space Hour on the floor. It makes sense, especially given the former Penn State basketball player Joonas Suotamo is literally Chewbacca.
7:38 p.m. — Waldo Black is still going hard on stage. At least, we think he is…
Where’s @IAMWALDOBLACK ?
— Onward State (@OnwardState) February 16, 2019
7:26 p.m. — Waldo Black, a rapper, singer, and songwriter, takes the stage to give the BJC crowd a live performance.
The fire alarm seemed to go off inside the @JordanCenter as @IAMWALDOBLACK took the stage.
— THONward State (@THONwardState) February 16, 2019
A sign of how
his performance is going to be?7:16 p.m. — It’s never too early to show the mop crew some love.
7:12 p.m. — In case you didn’t have enough to look forward to at THON this year, the Bungee Jumpers will be making their triumphant return to the BJC this year.
7:01 p.m. — Dancer Relations Captains, to the stage!
6:53 p.m. — The 2019 line dance has officially been unveiled to the Penn State world and you can check it out below.
6:50 p.m. — Update: We’re still learning the line dance.
6:43 p.m. — Update: We’re still learning the line dance.
6:36 p.m. — Before THON officially started, the dancers passed through the human tunnel on their way into the BJC.
6:32 p.m. — Are you wondering what every lyric in the line dance means? We’ve got you covered.
6:23 p.m. — Now, we get to learn the line dance. But, first, make sure you stretch properly.
6:12 p.m. — It’s time for the first line dance! Can you feel it, BJC?
6:05 p.m. – Sometimes you can only describe the THON experience through memes, and there is no better source for memes than Spongebob.
6:02 p.m. — Beloved former tight end Mike Gesicki will be among the speakers at THON this weekend. He has been known as a close friend of THON child Landon Kneep and will surprise him.
6:00 p.m. — And they are on their feet! Welcome to THON 2019!
5:58 p.m. — Dancers stand in T-2 minutes, and then we’re in it for the long haul, baby.
5:55 p.m. — THON is now introducing its 2019 Directors. The next time you see them all on the stage together will be the final line dance.
5:51 p.m. — After a powerful rendition of the national anthem, we are ready for THON 2019. Dancers stand in less than ten minutes.
5:30 p.m. — Dancers stand in 30 minutes! A couple acts have taken the stage in the run up to 6 p.m., including Roar! Brass Ensemble and Color Guard and Club Cheerleading.
5:15 p.m. — Four Diamonds co-founder Charles Millard always hoped the fund started in honor of his late son would have the impact THON’s allowed it to have.
4:58 p.m. — Mayor Don THON Hahn has officially declared State College to be the City of THON, beginning at 6 p.m.
4:45 p.m. — Oh, and the bowl is fulling up too. Happy entrance plan!
4:30 p.m. — The dancers are here!
3 p.m. — Mission accomplished: We’re inside the BJC and ready for THON 2019. Entertainment and OPP are putting the finishing touches on set up and running different sound and video checks.
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About the Author
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