Integral to being a high school student, at least traditionally, is the idea of a high school dance. Pulsating music, crowded gymnasiums, and students basking in the euphoria of youth are just a few images that come to mind. A few weeks ago, for the first time in several years, St. Mary’s Academy hosted a dance with St. Paul’s revolving around the theme ‘shot by cupid’, a fashionable twist for Valentine’s Day. As the evening approached, students dressed in their very best outfits, eager for a memorable night.

When the night finally came, it was wonderful. The St. Mary’s student council did a fabulous job in planning the event. From the DJ’s tunes to setting up decorations, all was well thought-out. The only thing that was missing from a perfect night were the people—more specifically, the male attendees. In fact, hardly any St. Paul’s students attended the event at all, and though the evening was enjoyable, it did not live up to its full potential. Where was everybody? Why did the attendance rate flop worse than the 49ers? Allow me to speculate. 

One rumour that has spread around is that on the night of the dance, all the guys were struck by stage fright, paralyzed by the mere thought of busting a move in front of each other. Perhaps our students have watched too many YouTube fail videos of embarrassing dancing attempts, leaving them terrified at becoming the next viral meme. 

The far more plausible explanation is that our students simply did not want to put down their controllers in exchange for a night packed with memories. 

Whatever the reason is for this abysmal appearance by our student body, the next time a school dance occurs, we must do better. Boys, put down your controllers (they will still be there), overcome your stage fright, and don’t be afraid to have a little fun while you’re at it! This year’s Valentine’s Day school dance is one that will be fondly remembered but would have been even better if you were there.