By Jenna Skarlupka, NEWS3 Reporter
MACOMB, Illinois – Western Illinois University’s Bureau of Cultural Affairs is one of many groups reshaping events in the face of COVID-19, and one of those ways is to go virtual.
The BCA, a student organization bringing arts to the community, is hosting a free “On the Couch” performing arts series on Wednesday nights in February. Dana Moon, adviser for the BCA, said it’s a good way to connect with people.
“Especially community people, they want entertainment, and they want to do something,” Moon said. “This is a way to provide that to them even though they can’t come to see us. We can show [it to] them on their couch.”
The five-week series has featured well-known acts like circus performers “The Great DuBois,” a capella group “Naturally 7” and Celtic rock band “Red Hot Chili Pipers.” TikTok sensation “The Sharpe Family Singers” will perform on Feb. 17, and “America’s Got Talent” champions “The Silhouettes” will perform on Feb. 24.
Moon said the BCA’s selection process involved ensuring a variety of artistic acts, and which ones could adapt their performances to the pandemic. As restrictions on indoor gatherings continue, she said the performing arts face a unique challenge as live events.
“I think that presenters and artists are going to have to make sure they’re creative enough to offer multiple venues or multiple ways of showing the entertainment,” Moon said.
Events like these not only provide entertainment to the community, but exposure for the performers, too. With a few shows completed and more to go, Moon said viewers have already responded positively.
“I did receive some feedback and one family said that that’s what they did for their entertainment for the evening and it made their night, so to me that’s a win,” Moon said.
The “On the Couch” series will continue at 7 p.m. on Wednesdays through Feb. 24. To access the series and other events, visit WesternPresents.com.
