The annual Blue Whale Cafe returned triumphantly to its beloved performance space in McCulloch Library. After two years of modified versions, the intimate, open-mic vibe brought showstopping performances from students, faculty, and staff. From musical performances and spoken word to beatboxing and magic, the night of celebrating the arts for a good cause was welcomed by all.
Upper School Arts Teacher Patrick Huber said, “Blue Whale was a success, even by the standards established before the pandemic. A vital part of the show is performances by faculty and staff, and we were happy to restore that this year. The audience was very accepting and appreciative, and it was a great opportunity to present a side of ourselves to students that they don’t usually see.”
Blue Whale Cafe was founded by the MICDS Environmental Club and Arts Council in 1995 as a student-led fundraising event to raise awareness of the importance of protecting ocean life. This year’s proceeds of more than $1,700 supported the Coral Reef Alliance, an organization helping to build a culture of environmental stewardship that leads to better protections for coral reef ecosystems.
Students set the theme of “90s grunge,” and anyone who remembers that era will find the artistry captured well on the Blue Whale official playbill showcasing the nearly 30 acts that took the stage. A special shout-out to Lauren Bell ’23 for designing a Gen-X-worthy logo for this year’s event.
A big thank you to the MICDS Arts Council for creating the ambiance in McCulloch Library and to the faculty and staff who served as producers and security, worked the ticket and food tables, and managed the front and backstage areas.
Arts Council Co-Head Ava Janes ’23 summed it up well, “Blue Whale Cafe was a major success this year. This was the first year we hosted in the library since COVID, and for the Arts Council and the performers, it was a gift. It was incredible witnessing the spectacular acts and co-emceeing with Keller [Goldstein ’23]. It took a lot of hours and hard work, and we are thankful for everyone and their contributions!”
Photos by Patrick Huber, Noah Macam ’23, and Morgan Macam ’26.