‘Athey Idol’ is back to showcase West Linn student talent

The students in the Athey Creek Middle School commons are quiet.

They’ve just settled down between performances during an after-school rehearsal for Athey Idol, waiting for the next performer to begin.

“Is it a sad song?” one of them asks.

“Yes,” said Allison Lee, the school’s choir and theater teacher.

The music begins and eighth grader Liv Bain starts singing “Stay” by Rihanna; at the end of her performance her classmates applaud furiously.

Athey Idol is a student talent show that serves as the school’s choir and drama fundraiser. An annual tradition at Athey Creek, the event would’ve celebrated its 20th anniversary this year if not for the two-year interruption of COVID-19.

This year’s Athey Idol takes place at 7 p.m. on Friday, June 7 in the Athey Creek Middle School commons. Tickets cost $10 for general admission, $15 for reserved and $25 for premium.

Athey Idol, much like its namesake “American Idol,” involves audience participation and voting for their favorite performers. Audience members can purchase 10 voting tickets for $10 online or in-person on the day of the show.

“My favorite part about doing Athey Idol is the confidence I gain every day,” said eighth grader Cristina Secchi. “And the friends I’ve gained through it and the support I feel.”

At the beginning of the rehearsal, Lee gave the students pieces of paper to write compliments and positive reinforcement for each other; after each performance, the students thoughtfully wrote down a few notes for their classmates.

“I have high confidence and I just love going out in front of a crowd and singing,” said seventh grader Dejon Allen. “I’m just an outgoing person; it’s how my mom raised me.”

This year’s Athey Idol features 47 students who can choose to perform in a group or solo. For many students, Athey Idol is a way to show their hidden talents and work with Lee one-on-one.

Performances vary from dancing to singing to a drum solo. Each performance is different and captures the variety of talent at Athey Creek.

Athey Idol raises money for the music and drama programs at Athey Creek, including funds needed for travel, costumes, music and equipment.

“Performing has always just kind of been fun to me. I’m a theater kid, too,” said eighth grader Chara Marton.

Tickets for Athey Idol are available online at https://www.eticketexpress.com/performance/atheycreek/idol_2024/6268496851763200.