The Howard University Homecoming Committee unveiled the secrets of their ‘Dynasty’ in Cramton Auditorium to an anxious and energetic crowd. From the beginning to end, the ceremony spilled with Howard spirit. The Showtime Marching Band started the show off with an upbeat, high-energy set of songs like “No Hands’” and “Hard in the Paint.”
The Homecoming chairman and vice chair woman Brian Cox and Dionne Vaughn, respectively, continued with a brief introduction to homecoming and its history that led to a video with cameos from artists like Bobby Valentino, Marques Houston, and J. Cole . The singers wished Howard a happy homecoming and encouraged students to participate in all the events.
Capturing the essence of the school’s student body is the Mr. and Miss Howard University Coronation, which takes place Oct. 22 in Blackburn for $5 per person. Other events include a gospel show, “In the Presence of Royalty,” featuring artists The Truth and Earnest Pugh in Cramton on Oct. 24 at 7 p.m. Event coordinator, Marsha Leo, is keeping the headlining performer’s name a secret.
Bringing a comedic element to the week of festivities is entertainer Sheryl Underwood, who will host “Joker’s Wild” on Oct. 25, 7 p.m., in Cramton. The show also includes acts from comediennes Loni Love and Miss Dominique.
This year’s poetry cipher, “Deeply Rooted,” stars renowned poet Amiri Baraka, Def Poetry Jam’s Saul Williams and Twin Poets Oct. 26 in Blackburn Ballroom at 7 p.m.
Like previous years, the fashion show, “Reflections” has two showings. However, this year, the two shows will have different components. Charmaine McPhee, the event coordinator, encourages guests to attend both the 7 and 10:30 p.m., shows on Oct. 27 in Cramton.
The celebrity basketball game, “Face Off: Battle for the Rock,” will continue into its third year with actors Hosea Sanchez, Brian White, Omari Hardwick, and Keith Robinson. This event will be held in Burr Gym at 6 p.m. on Oct. 28.
International Yardfest, formerly Yardfest, will be held on the yard at 12 p.m. on Oct. 29. Guests include hip-hop legend Slick Rick, reggae artist Serani, dancehall star Mr. Vegas, and headliner Rick Ross.
Erykah Badu and opening act, Dondria, are performing at the “Addicted to the Melody” R&B show.
Game day kicks off with the “Hollywood Dynasty” parade at 10 a.m. on Oct. 30. It continues with the game against Norfolk State University is at 1 p.m. in Greene Stadium. Later that evening, he kicks off at 6 p.m. at the D.C. Armory
A few new events were added this year that hope to bring out more students. There will be a 3-on-3 basketball tournament called Hoops for Hope held this Thursday, which will raise funds for sickle cell anemia research.
“Howardwoods” a new event that includes panel discussion about the ins and outs of the entertainment industry. Panelists will be Howard alumni that have advice to offer to students aspiring to be in entertainment. It will be held in Blackburn at 2 p.m. on Oct. 29.
Students seemed pleased at the announcement of this year’s performers, particularly for Yardfest and the R&B show.
Lotanna Ikeotuonye, a freshman chemistry major, was generally pleased with the results of the event. “Howard can do better. I think they saved all the good people for later. I think they wanted it to be surprise. I am going to have fun regardless.”
Ikeotuonye said she heard many rumors about students having to decide between class and homecoming events. Since this is her first homecoming, she hopes that she will be able to juggle them both. “I just hope I get to attend everything and still be on top of my work. Not just for the people, but for the school spirit.”
Although she is excited about the scheduled guest, she hopes her favorite R&B artist “just stops by.”
“I really, really want to see Trey Songz.”
Tickets can be purchased with cash in Burr Gym and credit or debit in Cramton. Tickets can also be purchased at Ticketmaster or Ticketmaster online.
This article was originally published in Howard University’s student-run newspaper, The Hilltop.
