Maverick writer sounds off

By Mark Costello
Collegian Editor
April 12, 2006

Last weekend’s appearance of Mr. Belding on La Salle’s campus was a sight to behold. He cavorted about the stage in the Dan Rodden Theatre like a man on fire. The theater was packed; everyone excitedly responded to every motion Dennis Haskins made and anticipated every word he said. Especially, “I’m so excited. I’m so excited. I’m so scared.” Which, I feel the need to point out, wasn’t even his line on the cursed show that sprung him into his so-called fame. The man couldn’t even come up with his own quotable quotes.

Following Mr. Belding’s awkwardly mixed inspirational speech, comedy routine and celebrity appearance, a student run organization called the Maverick One Acts performed. Haskins directly referred to the Maverick performance after his speech several times, to a crowded room. And yet, much to my disappointment, the theater barely remained half-full for the Mavericks. The room emptied; people were more intent upon getting the autograph of a has-been than supporting their fellow students.

Where is the Lasallian spirit? What state is the Lasallian community in when student organizations get less support than second-rate guest speakers? The Mavericks put on an admirable set of student-written, student-produced and student directed shows—and yet, the larger portion of the audience was current and previous members of the Masque. The only people to come out and support the Mavericks were members of the organization from which they were formed.

There are things on campus worth doing that involve the lively arts. Attend a Masque performance. See the Mavericks. Hear the jazz band play or go to the Singers’ performances at Christmas and in the spring. Get involved in a side of La Salle you usually would not and be shocked and amazed at the wonders of the fine arts—even precious Mr. Belding can’t stand up to comparison. La Salle needs to look inward for entertainment.

costellom4@lasalle.edu