Highlights of the 2022 International Festival: Reunion

Given that the St. Stephen’s community followed strict social distancing protocols throughout the last two years, the biennial International Festival, “Reunion,” seemed particularly joyous.

On Friday, April 8, school members packed the Middle School Gym to celebrate our diverse, global culture through an array of foods, performances and activities. Festival goers snacked on international treats that included Japanese sushi, Mexican churros, Vietnamese bahn mi, Chinese fried rice and lo mein, Jamaican jerk chicken, Italian cannoli, Korean spicy rice cakes, Nigerian stew and plantains, Indian samosas, French pastries, Southern fried chicken, and more.

Participants also were treated a number of musical, dance and vocal performances by their peers. The school’s Thunder Drummers offered a rousing welcome to the event, and 12th graders Fabi Garza and Andrew Bohnsack served as emcees throughout the program. Student performers included a violinist; several dance groups, including the school’s Chrysalis Dance Co.; blindfolded origami; a piano and voice duet; and a poetry slam. In addition to the many food tables, booths included several art spaces, face painting, Chinese engraving and henna tattoos.

Many thanks to the International Program staff for organizing this beloved biennial event, as well as the students and staff on the planning committee.