Spectrum shines bright with ‘Starry Night’ soiree

By Kaitlyn Seawood

Spectrum Pride Alliance, the LGBTQIA+ club, lit up the night with its annual soirée, themed “Starry Night,” transforming the Cavalla Room into a celestial wonderland of acceptance and celebration. 

As attendees entered through a cloud of string lights, reminiscent of drifting among the stars, they were greeted with a table where guests could decorate and adorn masquerade masks.

Various props were available for photo opportunities, including a sunflower fence ideal for group pictures, a mirror embellished with the iconic swirls of Van Gogh’s “Starry Night” and a balloon arch meticulously created by members of Spectrum.

Denise King, a junior film and television major who uses they/she pronouns, shared their experience at this year’s event.

“I really loved the theme for this year,” said King. “I thought it was very unique and the photo props were a really nice touch.”

Reflecting on their journey, King reminisced about attending Spectrum’s soirée as a freshman. She highlighted how it served as a pivotal moment, marking the first significant event of the year where they felt genuinely comfortable being themselves.

Fueling the festivities was a spread of delectable delights, including pizza, self-serve sandwiches, an assortment of desserts and a mocktail bar that offered a constellation of refreshing beverages, such as the “mermaid refresher” and “blue shoe.”

As the night progressed, the dance floor came alive, drawing attendees of all backgrounds and identities together. Despite a slow start, as other campus events also occurred the same night, the energy of the soirée intensified around 9:30 p.m.

The vibrant atmosphere persisted until the event’s conclusion at 11 p.m., leaving participants with lasting memories.

Beyond the glittering decoration, what illuminated the evening was the spirit of inclusivity that permeated every corner of the event. Whether attendees arrived with friends or alone, the soirée provided a welcoming space where everyone felt free to be their authentic selves, forging connections and creating memories that would last far beyond the final dance.

Nick Barbati, assistant vice president of student affairs and Spectrum’s adviser, emphasized the critical role of LGBTQIA+ events on campus.

“LGBTQIA+ events are so important for visibility,” said Barbati. “They serve not only the students who identify as members of the [LGBTQIA+] community, but also for people who come from an area where they haven’t been able to interact with many students, friends or family members who identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community.”

Barbati underscored Spectrum’s role as an integral segment of the Rider community, emphasizing its capacity to facilitate connections among students. 

He highlighted that Spectrum serves as a gateway for students to explore the diversity among their peers, a fundamental aspect in fostering a deep appreciation for the community they belong to.

In the end, Spectrum’s soirée proved to be more than just a party: it was a testament to the power of community, acceptance and the boundless experiences that emerge when individuals come together under the same shimmering sky.

Tristan E. M. Leach is president of Spectrum and features and entertainment editor for The Rider News. Leach had no part in the writing or editing of this article.