VU Late Night lights up Old Main lawn

By Donella Lalas The crowd danced to loud music while bright lights flashed and artists painted live for everyone to see. Western’s first Viking Union Late Night of the year, held on September 28, was filled with all sorts of activities and performances. The event was held outdoors on Old Main lawn to create space for more activities, said Pauline Elevazo, Associated Students Productions Director. Activities included yoga, lawn games, painting and an improv workshop with Western’s Dead Parrots Society.There were also performances by DJs, a magician, a violinist, Jack Johnson and free pizza for all.

Artists gave live painting demonstrations alongside tents filled with art. People crowded around the DJ to dance while others sat and relaxed in a space called the Tea Lounge. The area consisted of pillows and places to sit on the ground as well as salt lamps and soothing music. Third-year student Taryn Ludwig said it was her first time ever going to a VU Late Night. “It’s very rave-like,” Ludwig said. “It’s a lot more fun than I was expecting, I like it a lot.” Ludwig said her favorite part was seeing the lights and artwork on display. The event was open to all but mainly targeted new students to help them connect with the greater Bellingham community as well as with one another, said AS Productions Special Events Coordinator Neal Lynberg. Lynberg said AS Productions spent about two months planning the event to create a fun atmosphere and place for students to spend their first weekend at Western. “My favorite part about it all is seeing everyone enjoy the space,” Lynberg said. “That’s always the best part.” Lynberg also works to put on other similar events around town for Metanoia Collective.This  is an organization that puts on events including art and music to facilitate community growth, connection and creativity, he said.

Creating a space where people can get to know each other is great. It’s also huge to create space for artists to express themselves, he said. As for future special events, Lynberg said AS Productions has plans in place for comedy nights, guest speakers and another Late Night event during spring quarter. Elevazo said she also enjoyed putting on the event. “Neal’s really the brains of the event,” Elevazo said. “I really just wanted to support what he wanted it to look like and what he wanted to do.” Elevazo said her favorite part of the event was the DJ and the free pizza that was provided. Adding on to future events, Elevazo said that AS Productions has a lot in store for the year, not only for special events but also concerts, movies and collaborations with other campus organizations as well.

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