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THON Children Show Off Electric Skills In Kids’, Teens’ Talent Shows

It wouldn’t be THON without the annual Kids’ Talent Show. This year, THON children showed off their phenomenal singing, dancing, and even gymnastics performances on the livestream.

The first act of the afternoon was a mashup of performances to “Dance Monkey” by Tones and I. The kids kicked off the afternoon with spectacular energy.

Then, 8-year-old Sarah performed a dance number to the song “Famous For (I Believe)” by Tauren Wells. She even incorporated baton twirling into her performance while she was actively jumping up and down. Not only can she dance…she can multitask, too.

The next performance of the afternoon was Devin and Trevor Pulaski who danced to “Bang” by AJR. In their free time, the siblings like to sing, dance, draw, hang out, and see their friends from THON.

“I hope you like the song I picked out today,” Devin Pulaski said. “Me and my brother will be dancing to it. My favorite sports team is the Eagles and Penn State.”

Devin’s red tutu and hat were the perfect touches to the sparkly red background. Trevor brought energy to the performance.

Then, Aubrey performed a fierce tap dance to “Shake It Off” by Taylor Swift.

Connor Rowan put on a stellar performance by showing off his Fortnite dances. I’m confident that he inspired all of the Penn State gamers to go turn their consoles on. Where we dropping, boys?

Then, Levi and Christian Krodel put on the ultimate Star Wars battle with colorful lightsabers. The reenactment definitely pumped energy through the veins of all the Penn State Star Wars fans.

Elizabeth, a piano prodigy, put on a breathtaking performance of “Row, Row, Row Your Boat.”

McKenna Speed sang an impressive rendition of “Mama’s Broken Heart” by Miranda Lambert. She sang her heart out and had a twangy guitar accompaniment.

Elliana Rodenhauser stole the show with her “Dance Monkey” dance number. She had an awesome “candy shoppe” background and made it even more interesting by incorporating props.

“I like playing with baby dolls and doing makeup,” Rodenhauser said. “I like the [PPL] dance team. I was dancing since I was a baby.”

Clare and Scarlett Shepps gave Simone Biles a run for her money when they showed off their gymnastic skills. The girls wowed the virtual crowd with their flips, cartwheels, and balance beam routine.

The two giggly sisters were inspired to learn their cool tricks because of their sister Sydney.

Following the gymnastics show, Aden Gora played piano and Zayla Gora put on a hip-hop dance show.

Finally, Ellis Evans did a breakdance to “Impossible” by James Arthur.

Following the annuals Kids’ Talent Show, THON debuted the first-ever Teens’ Talent Show.

Teens who are involved with THON TEENnetwork chose one word to describe it. “Love,” “family,” “supportive,” and “carefree” were words that they chose. It allows teens to go and be normal kids for a little bit.

Family Relations director Luke Mallen, National American Miss PA Lyra Stubbs, and former Penn State lacrosse star Grant Ament were selected as judges for the Teens’ Talent Show.

Adeline Cosentino started off the event by singing “Clouds” by Zach Sobiech. Her powerful performance was soul-filling, and she truly hit every note.

“Your voice: amazing, beautiful,” Stubbs said. “I could listen to it all day.”

Then, Carly Wilfong did a Zumba dance to Taylor Swift’s “Shake It Off.” It was groovy and energetic and absolutely got the crowd pumped up.

“I loved your confidence,” Stubbs said. “I loved the moves. I wish you could see me dancing along.”

Then, future Nittany Lion Caleb Deckman showed off his talent by drumming to “The Champion.” Deckman gave a powerful testimony and is 13 years cancer-free.

Kane Wolf is now four years cancer-free and showed off his basketball skills with an impressive highlight reel. He could totally break Jamari Wheeler’s ankles.

Alex Newcomb sang “A Million Dreams” by the Greatest Showman cast. Her beautiful and powerful voice made for a stellar and moving performance.

“That was awesome,” Ament said. “You gave Hugh Jackman a run for his money. Keep up the great work and thanks for sharing your talent with us.”

Josiah Garcia put on an absolutely electric dance performance. His original dance moves would show up any TikTok dancer. Dancers at home surely felt like they were in the BJC during this infectious performance.

The last number of the Teens’ Dance Show was Zachary Shiffer. Shiffer is approaching five years cancer-free and showed off his extraordinary, rockin’ drum skills. He accompanied “What Would You Say” by Dave Matthews Band.

It sure is safe to say that THON really does have talent.

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About the Author

Colleen Nersten

Colleen is a washed-up biology grad and former associate editor. Her legacy will live on through stories like “10 Questions With State College Sensation ‘Hot UPS Bae’”. If you’re a STEM girlie, this is your sign to take the leap of faith and learn to write. It’s pretty fun. Colleen misses the hate mail and can be reached at [email protected] or via LinkedIn.

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