Filled with artwork, music stands and computers, the Barry Gymnasium was transformed into a showcase of student work at the Spring Arts Festival May 5. The festival included performances by the band and the freshman and concert choirs, as well as displays of student art and movies.

Two art teachers from Old Trail School judged the artwork. Art teacher Micah Kraus explained why there were outside judges this year.

"It was important that we had unbiased judges," he said. "Having fresh eyes recognize the students' talent legitimizes what we [Kraus and art teacher Margot Eiseman] see."

Among the awards given, bests in drawing, painting, photography, mixed media and print making were awarded to senior Andrea Thomas, juniors Ian Henschen and Anna Edwards and sophomores Abigail Powell and Angela Holbein, respectively. Best in show was awarded to senior Kathie Kovarik.

"Students who win the best in show award are generally upperclassmen," Kraus said. "The student must have a consistent body of work and a strong portfolio."

Henschen enjoyed participating in the festival.

"I feel good about contributing to the art program," Henschen said. "We had an awesome turnout, and I was really impressed with everyone's work."

The concert began with the band, which played four songs including a Phantom of the Opera medley. The freshman choir performed after the band and was followed by the concert choir. Junior Kristen Minrovic participated in the choir performance.

"We [the choir] put a lot together since January," she said. "I think it turned out well, even though we had to cut the Ave Maria."

In addition to the concert and artwork, you could see student films. Senior Dave Passarelli had a short film introducing a skateboarding/snowboarding movie he made during his art class.

"I worked really hard on this movie," he said. "It was good to finally get this trailer out."

The festival was a successful evening for both the performers and the art students.

"This was one of the best art shows we've had," Passarelli said.

Last night at the Apple Store in Legacy Village, all the student films made by Hoban students were shown. Films made by Edwards, Passarelli, junior Andrew Bader and other art students were presented.