Themed as “Loyolapalooza” for the 2016-17 school year, Loyola’s annual dance is set to be held on Saturday, September 17.
The dance, which experiences numbers of over 3,000 students, is known as one of the largest social events in the greater Los Angeles high school community, according to Chris Walter ’93, Student Council Moderator and Advisor.
Student Council Dance Representative Scotty Tamkin, a senior, commented on the dance’s attendance.
“We are expecting a rise in the number of students to attend the dance,” Tamkin said. “Every year has shown an increase in attendance. In previous years we have never had to turn anyone away, so there isn’t a cap on the number of people who can attend.”
For many members of the Class of 2020, Loyolapalooza will offer the first opportunity to experience a high school dance. Freshman Ramsay Goyal commented on his expectations for his first Loyola dance.
“I am looking forward to socializing with my fellow classmates and meeting girls from other schools,” Goyal said. “Since Loyola is an all boys school, it will be nice to have some interaction with girls. To me, I envision a lot of lights strung around the commons and a lot of people mingling, hanging out and talking. I expect it to be really busy and crowded.”
Having experienced the dance last year, sophomore Jonas Greer reflected on his first impression of the dance.
“I thought the dance was a great way to meet many new people, and it helped me to catch up with old friends,” Greer said. “It gave me a chance to take my mind off schoolwork for a little while.”
Senior Sam Marguleas also reflected on his previous years at the dances and what he is looking forward to for his last Loyola fall dance.
“Each year was an experience that enabled me to build upon the fun and socializing I had from the previous year. The dances bring together the energy and liveliness of students from all over LA, making the experience so much better. I’m definitely looking forward to having as much of a good time as possible at the Loyolapalooza.”
One of the reasons Loyola dances are successful is the improvements that the Student Council and staff formulate.
“One of the most unique aspects about Loyola’s first dance is the fact that we are able to use so much student and faculty talent,” Walter said. “This year, Cubs can expect even more student-run entertainment, such as additional student DJ’s.”
The dance will last from 7:30-10:30 p.m. Girls tickets $15 at the door, and Loyola students are free with ID.
