On Sunday night, Schwab Auditorium hosted the THON 2025 Showcase, with 14 different acts competing to win a grand prize of $3,000 towards their fundraising goals and to perform during THON weekend in February. The event was presented by Dunkin’, with free gift cards and donuts given out to all attendees.

The competition’s judges included THON 2025 Executive Director Keegan Sobczak, Four Diamonds child, level six competitive gymnast, and cancer survivor Kionne Abrams, Penn State graduate and mother of Abrams’ Alyssa Abrams, and Penn State influencer and Dunkin’ representative Megan Million.

Before the night kicked off, there was a surprise appearance from Sprinkles, the Dunkin’ mascot.

Last year’s winner, Whiplash Dance Team, kicked off the evening with an electrifying and upbeat performance, set to a nostalgic old-school hip-hop mix that had the audience buzzing.

Next, Coda Conduct took the stage with a polished and lively rendition of “Skate,” which had the crowd clapping and singing along in unison.

Orchesis Dance Company, Penn State’s oldest dance team, followed with an emotive performance set to “Dream State,” leaving a lasting impression on the audience.

Mikey Flynn, THON’s head of security for 2025, delivered a heartfelt solo performance of “Dancing in the Dark,” captivating the crowd.

The Sign Language Organization brought a unique twist to the lineup with an entirely ASL interpretation of “Can’t Stop Singing,” showcasing inclusivity and creativity.

I Alley energized the audience with a vibrant mashup of “Pompeii” and “I Lived,” blending catchy tunes into an unforgettable performance.

Closing out the first half of the event, JaDhoom lit up the stage with a high-energy Bollywood mix that had everyone on their feet.

During the 15-minute intermission, attendees who stayed in the main auditorium enjoyed interactive games. A spin-the-wheel activity allowed lucky seatholders to contribute to fundraising efforts for an organization of their choice. Additionally, a Kahoot! trivia game featuring Dunkin’ facts offered fun prizes and another opportunity to support fundraising goals.

As the second half began, The Statesmen, Penn State’s only all-male a cappella group, opened with an engaging performance of “It’s Gonna Be Me,” setting an exciting tone for the remainder of the night.

Penn State Lyrical Line followed with a moving and passionate performance to “I Am Here.”

Natalie McMahon then graced the stage with an intimate solo rendition of “Ho Hey,” delivering a soulful and heartfelt moment.

Rince na Leon, Penn State’s Irish dance team, brought infectious energy and precision to their Justin Bieber mashup, dazzling the crowd with their intricate choreography.

Hershey Kisses’ Zach Yaros followed with an acoustic cover of “Here Comes the Sun,” offering a soothing and melodic interlude.

Urban Dance Troupe brought the energy back up with a dynamic Bruno Mars mix that had everyone clapping and singing along enthusiastically.

Finally, as the last competing act of the evening, The Singing Lions, Penn State’s premier show choir, delivered an emotional medley featuring “Don’t Give Up On Me,” along with excerpts from “Dancing in the Sky” and “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” closing out the night on a powerful and inspiring note.

At the conclusion of the competing acts, representatives from each of the 14 performances were invited to take the stage. They shared heartfelt stories about their involvement in THON and their motivations for participating in the showcase, offering a glimpse into the passion behind their performances.

But the evening wasn’t over just yet. The audience was treated to a special finale by Kionne Abrams, one of the judges. He delivered a gymnastics routine set to Kenny Loggins’ “Footloose,” performing alongside a member of his paired organization. The routine featured breathtaking stunts that kept the audience on the edge of their seats.

Finally, representatives from each of the 14 performances were invited back onto the stage to hear the much-anticipated winner. Adding to the excitement, Sprinkles, the beloved Dunkin’ mascot, made another appearance to present the Donut Trophy to the winning group.

Urban Dance Troupe secured fifth place, earning $650 toward their fundraising goals. Penn State Lyrical Line followed in fourth place with $850. Orchesis Dance Company claimed third place and was awarded $1,000. Whiplash Dance Team took second place, receiving $2,000.

Lastly, Rince na Leon was announced as the winner of the THON 2025 showcase. The Irish dance team earned the top prize of $3,000, a coveted performance slot during THON Weekend, and the donut trophy. The crowd erupted in applause as they celebrated this well-deserved victory.

And with that, the night came to a close, but not before everyone picked up a free donut at the main doors of Schwab Auditorium.