On Jan. 25, Mills E. Godwin High School showcased Mr. MG, an entertaining talent show for male students.
The production of Mr. MG spanned over three months as students rushed to write, choreograph, build, and rehearse in time for the final show.
Principles of Leadership teacher and SCA sponsor Rebecca Martino sponsors the event annually, assisted this year by new SCA co-sponsor Nathan Davis. “He’s had a lot of experience putting on events, and I really appreciated his perspective,” said Martino.
Twelve contestants participated from all grade levels, dedicating time to perfect their performances. Despite how far they progressed, everyone had an enjoyable time showcasing their talents to the school and working closely with their classmates.
“The biggest successes are always the growth of the individual contestants over the course of our practices, the number of first-time attendees to the show who say they can’t wait for next year’s performance, and of course, the Make-A-Wish Foundation,” said Martino, after raising more than $3,000 for Make-A-Wish.
Several contestants had participated in shows from previous years, however, senior Ayush Pal performed for the first time. “As a senior, I wanted to have the MG experience before I graduate with my friends who, conveniently, were also competing,” said Pal.
Senior Ella Grace Barbier, Pal’s contestant coach, worked closely with him as he designed his act, contributing most towards his character video, which featured him singing around Godwin. “His video required a lot of filming, so we spent a lot of time together, and it was such a fun process,” said Barbier. “I was very proud that our idea came to life.”
However, as the days counted down to the final show, both Pal and Barbier had to work against the clock. “We lost a whole week of school, so it was a struggle to script, record, and edit everything we needed, but I couldn’t have done it without Ella Grace,” said Pal. “She was super encouraging and positive during the whole process.”
Pal continuously impressed the audience with his acts, notably through his moving rendition of Bruno Mars’s When I Was Your Man. “Each round I was just more and more proud of us as a team and for him,” said Barbier. “I felt confident he would be Mr. MG!”
At the end of the show, Pal was named Mr. MG of 2025. “Being crowned MG means so much coming from a community of students and friends who have supported me throughout high school, and being able to give back to this community for a night was definitely a gift,” said Pal.
Adding on, Martino said, “Ayush Pal is a wonderful choice for Mr. MG. He’s funny, clever, kind, humble, and he appreciates being a Godwin High School student.”
The process of producing a successful show for everyone to enjoy does not come easily, as many were required to confront and overcome obstacles. “It has been rewarding to see how the [contestants] work around these problems,” said senior and Mr. MG emcee Molly Chapman. “I have also loved seeing [students] step up to the challenge of being in contestants’ acts, conquering any stage fright, and trying something new.”
Overall, Mr. MG provided an exciting experience for all teachers and students involved, leaving behind long-lasting memories. (see page 8 to read about the making of Mr. MG)
