King's Academy, February 15, 2010—King's Academy students and faculty gathered in the Gallery for an Open Mic Coffee House Night featuring performances from students and faculty last Monday. Organized by seniors Nairuz Al Ajlouni, Zaid Al-Nassir and Fadi Hamati, the event highlighted a blend of instrumental and dance performances, and doubled as a fundraiser for earthquake victims in Haiti. Over JD 1,000 were raised by the event from more than 200 King's students and faculty members. Fine and Performing Arts Faculty Member Ryuji Yamaguchi performed a special dance entitled "Retreat," designed as a meditation on the war in Iraq. "It was wonderful to see so many people come out to support the cause for Haiti, and to support our student and faculty performers," said Yamaguchi. "The audience was warm and receptive, and gave all performers a chance to shine." The event featured a surprise performance by Dean of Students Julianne Puente who played the guitar and sang "Good Riddance," "Me and Julio Down by the School Yard" and "Sweet Home Alabama." Another crowd favorite was Faculty Member Tom Verde ‘s original song "A School in Jordan."   "This was one of the best student produced events at King's," said Yamaguchi, summing up the evening. "I hope the seniors continue hosting other great events like this, and that the events get passed on to younger classes as legacies of our school." The event certainly seems well on its way to becoming a valued tradition at King's as this was the second Open Mic of the year.