Event includes singing, dancing, fashion show
Students from Japan to Germany and many countries in between will celebrate their culture at the 13th annual World Night tonight at 6:30 p.m. in the Russell House Ballroom.
“There will be lots of dancing and performances,” said Leigh Eleazer, an administrative assistant for International Student Services. “The great thing about World Night is that we have different students participating every year, so you’ll never see the same thing twice.”
The International Student Association will host the event, which will feature 12 different singing, dancing and martial arts acts from members of eight different organizations, including the Pan-African Student Association, the Vietnamese Student Association and the Indian Student Organization.
After the performance, there will be a fashion show of international garb, called “The Parade of Countries,” as well as an international student organization fair.
“That way, if students are interested by what they see in the performance, they can go right up and talk to the organizations,” said Jen Smith, a graduate assistant for International Student Services.
A 50/50 raffle will also be held, with 50 percent of the money raised by ticket sales being awarded to the winner of the raffle and the other 50 percent benefiting Cooperative for Assistance and Relief Everywhere, an organization dedicated to fighting international poverty.
While tickets are also available at the door, students are encouraged to buy them in advance while they still can.
“We usually have over 600 people attend, and tickets always sell out, so it’s good to buy them in advance,” Eleazer said.
Tickets include a large dinner spread featuring food from many different cultures, provided by various Columbia restaurants, including Eric’s San Jose and Palmetto Pig.
“The dinner will be great. There will be food from so many different cultures, and you’ll really be able to get a taste of each,” Smith said. “One staff member is even making homemade baklava.”
Students who wish to experience this night of international sights, sounds and tastes can purchase advance tickets at the Russell House Information Desk for $10 or purchase tickets at the door for the same price.