“Art”: Ghostlight’s Newest Masterpiece

Ghostlight finished its inaugural season this weekend with the play “Art.” Managing Arts & Living Editor Madeline Lawson ’25 recaps the stellar performances and impressive set design by Amherst’s newest student theater troupe.

Time-Warped Records: “Modern Vampires of the City”

In this edition of Time-Warped Records, Columnist Alden Parker ’26 reviews Vampire Weekend’s “Modern Vampires of the City,” discussing the maturity and refinement that the album brought to the band’s sound.

How to Blow Up a Movie

“How to Blow Up a Pipeline” (2022) falls far short of its explosive title, writes Miles Garcia ’25, wasting the potential to stoke a cinematic fire under the climate fight.

The Lilac x The Student: “Waiting Period”

Siri Palreddy ’24 weaves images of motherhood and plants in this edition of The Lilac x The Student.

“Survivor”: Season 44, Episode 9

In the recent episode of “Survivor,” Vaughn Armour ’25 recaps this week’s idol drama and competitive immunity challenges.

The Final Val Hack

In Val Hacks’ final issue of the year, Columnist Ivy Haight ’25 reflects on the dining friends who have sweetened her dining experience.

“Memories from Home”: An International Student Art Exhibition

Last week, “Memories from Home,” an international student art showcase, opened on the second floor of Frost Library. Staff Writer Florence Doyle ’26 and DEI Editor Erin Williams ’26 cover the exhibition’s launch party.

Context, Creation, Come-Up: Gabby Moore ’23

In this edition of 3C’s, Columnist Kobe Thompson ’24 speaks with multi-instrumentalist Gabby Moore ’23 about her journey through music at Amherst and her upcoming project.

The Indicator x The Student: “(Night)Blind”

Originally published in the Fall 2022 edition of “The Indicator,” Managing Opinion Editor Tapti Sen ’25 reckons with the cultural significance of blessings in her home of Bangladesh.

The Indicator x The Student: “Welcome to Earth”

Davis Rennella ’24 imagines a man traveling across worlds in a piece originally published in the Fall 2022 edition of “The Indicator.”

“Survivor”: Season 44, Episode 8

This week’s episode of “Survivor” included rare relaxation time and a grueling immunity challenge. Columnist Vaughn Armour ’25 recounts the episode’s heartfelt moments and thrilling competitions.

Val Hacks: Granola Bar

Looking for a quick snack to eat between classes? Columnist Ivy Haight ’25 shares how to make a crunchy granola bar in this week’s Val Hacks!

John Cho Discusses Barrier-Breaking Acting Career

Actor John Cho came to speak in Johnson Chapel on Monday, April 24. The “Harold & Kumar” star discussed his career while being a Korean American, the proliferation of Asian stereotypes, and the evolving role of Asian Americans in cinema.

“Survivor”: Season 44, Episode 7

This week’s episode of “Survivor” was filled with physically taxing challenges, emotional moments, and classic dilemmas. Columnist Vaughn Armour ’25 details the latest season’s exciting progress.

Val Hacks: Brunch To-Go

In this issue of Val Hacks, Ivy Haight ’25 shares how to make a healthy, delicious fruit salad and savory bagel sandwich for a delicious brunch. Follow the recipes for your new favorite fruit-filled or protein-packed brunch treat!

The Lilac x The Student: “Growing pains”

Madison Suh ’26 delivers a heartfelt poem about growing up and maternal relationships in this week’s edition of The Lilac x The Student.

“Survivor”: Season 44, Episode 7

This week’s episode of “Survivor” featured an uncharacteristic twist, and the consequences took viewers by surprise. Columnist Vaughn Armour ’25 recounts the alliance-destroying challenge.

Val Hacks: Cold Drinks

Hydrate for the warm weather with this edition of Val Hacks! Ivy Haight ’25 shares her simple, creative iced drink recipes that are perfect to drink on their own or to compliment your next meal.

“Hope Springs” Offers Antidote to the Tyranny of Order

“Hope Springs,” the senior thesis project between lee folpe ’23 and Cameron Mueller-Harder ’23, premiered in Holden Experimental Theater from April 6 to 8. Senior Managing Editor Dustin Copeland ’25 lauds its staging of the vital need for stewardship — of our earth, community, and bodies.

Context, Creation, Come-Up: Taz Kim ’23

For this edition of 3C’s, Columnist Kobe Thompson ’24 sits down with cellist Taz Kim ’23 to discuss his background in classical music and how the instrument has served as a springboard into other genres.

The Indicator x The Student: “7-11 Parking Lot”

Anna Wetzel ’26 portrays the fleeting interaction between two strangers in a parking lot in a piece originally published in the Fall 2022 edition of “The Indicator.”

The Indicator x The Student: “阿嬤，我想你”

Evelyn Chi ’25 shows love and care through food in her original poem, first published in the Fall 2022 edition of “The Indicator.”

“Survivor”: Season 44, Episode 6

This week’s episode of “Survivor” saw the tribes merge in one of the most anticipated moments of the season! Columnist Vaughn Armour ’25 details the conflicts and alliances that deepened with the merge.

Val Hacks: Smoothie Bowl

Make your mornings sweeter with a delicious smoothie bowl. Columnist Ivy Haight ’25 provides an easy-to-make recipe for your next fruity breakfast treat.

Ghostlight’s Double Feature: Double the Comedy, Double the Talent

The Ghostlight Double Feature premiered this weekend with the student-written plays “Meteoric” and “BY You.” The shows were full of comedy and showcased the skills of Amherst’s playwrights, actors, and stage crew.

“Survivor”: Season 44, Episode 5

In this week’s “Survivor,” competitors strengthened bonds and missed valuable opportunities. Columnist Vaughn Armour ’25 details the tensions within the tribes.

Val Hacks: Ice Cream Party!

Bored of plain ol’ soft serve? Mix up your dessert with an ice cream party! This week, Columnist Ivy Haight ’25 provides her tricks for the perfect ice cream treats.

Ten-Minute Play Festival Spotlights Student Theater

Green Room presented its Ten Minute Play Festival, celebrating student theater with four original plays. Managing Arts & Living Editor Alex Brandfonbrener ʼ23 gives his thoughts on the productions’ humor and whismy.

Context, Creation, Come-Up: Jerome Raymond ʼ24

Jerome Raymond ʼ24 is a singer-songwriter with an upcoming EP, “Monochromatic.” 3 C’s Columnist Kobe Thompson ʼ24 speaks with Raymond about his path into music, from quarantine to streaming services.

Amherst Choral Society Blossoms in Spring Concert

The Choral Society performed their Spring Concert last Saturday, featuring pieces written by Amherst community members and honoring the group’s graduating seniors.

“Survivor”: Season 44, Episode 4

“Survivor” expert Vaughn Armour ’25 breaks down this week’s episode, which took a sudden turn when contestants were forced to swap tribes.

Amherst STEM Network x The Student: Squirrel Smarts

Nora Lowe ’26 dives into the clever but enigmatic mind of the Eastern gray squirrel in this week’s Amherst STEM Network x The Student: Are gray squirrels smart because they adapt, or do they adapt because they’re smart?

The Lilac x The Student: “Rainforest Gothic”

“Rainforest Gothic,” a poem by Willow Delp ʼ26, is featured in this week’s edition of The Lilac x The Student.

Val Hacks: Cinnamon Roll

In this edition of Val Hacks, Columnist Ivy Haight ’25 cooks up a recipe for cinnamon rolls! This super simple recipe only has four ingredients, but the results are delicious.

“Envisioning Lebanon”: Politics and Photography

On March 21, the photography exhibition “Envisioning Lebanon: a country between collapse and revolution” premiered in Frost Library. Managing Arts & Living Editor Noor Rahman ’25 details the exhibition, which portrays the tension between revolution and normalcy in Lebanon.

Black Art Matters Festival Showcases Black Creativity

The sixth Black Art Matters Festival celebrated the work of Black student artists over two days, spanning musical performances, poetry, dance, and visual art exhibitions.

The Indicator x The Student: “dead on arrival”

Originally published in the Fall 2022 edition of “The Indicator,” Managing Arts & Living Editor Madeline Lawson ’25 writes about an all-encompassing obsession.

The Indicator x The Student: “Skies Beyond Skies”

Pauline Bissell ’25 speaks wistfully about an old relationship in a poem originally published in the Fall 2022 edition of “The Indicator.”

“Survivor”: Season 44, Episodes 2 & 3

You may have survived spring break, but did you survive without last week’s “Survivor”? Columnist Vaughn Armour ’25 recaps the last two episodes, which solidified some relationships and tensions in this season.

The Oscars in Miniature: The Nominated Short Films

On Sunday, the Academy Awards will laud winners for short films. Ruth Zuraw ’25 reviews each film in the live action and animation categories, providing her recommendations for short movie nights.

“The Milk Man” Brings all the Viewers to the Yard

AC Production Company premiered its first film “The Milk Man” on Saturday, Feb. 18. Staff Writer Joe Sweeney ’25 is ambivalent towards the mockumentary, which follows a student who makes the best milkshake Amherst College has ever seen.

WAMH x The Student: Fiona Apple

Feminine rage has long been a topic of Fiona Apple’s music, particularly in her 2020 album “Fetch the Bolt Cutters.” Sylvie Wolff ’25 explores the harsh and experimental album that implores women to speak out.

Time-Warped Records: “Play”

In this edition of Time-Warped Records, Columnist Alden Parker ’26 reviews Moby’s 1999 album “Play,” which catapulted the musician from has-been to worldwide superstar.

“Survivor” Season 44, Episode 1, Reviewed

“Survivor” returns with a brand new season! Resident fan and Staff Writer Vaughn Armour ’25 recaps the episode, filled with unexpected medical incidents and drama from the get-go.

The Lilac x The Student: “Nothing Entire”

The inaugural edition of The Lilac x The Student, brought to you by The Poetry Club and the Arts & Living section, features “Nothing Entire,” a poem by Joe Sweeney ’25.

Val Hacks: Pizza Bagel

Val Hacker Ivy Haight ’25 presents her latest culinary masterpiece. Use this recipe the next time you’re wrestling with the perennial question: Should I eat a pizza or a bagel?

Content, Creation, Come-Up: Lauren Dinhofer ’23

In this edition of 3 C’s, Columnist Kobe Thompson ’24 talks with Lauren Dinhofer ’23, a multi-talented musician who has cultivated her craft since an early age.

Save Cinema from the White Savior

White saviors are a common trope in the entertainment industry. Contributing Writer Mackenzie Dunson ’25 analyzes the problematic history and consequences of Hollywood’s reliance on white saviors, derailing narratives that should be centered around people of color.

Amherst STEM Network x The Student: Parasocial Relationships

In this edition of Amherst STEM Network x The Student, Nora Lowe ’26 explains the surprising benefits of parasocial relationships. Check out Amherst STEM Network’s website (amherststemnetwork.com) for more.

The Indicator x The Student: “A Sovereign / Two Bodies”

Staff Writer at The Indicator Aidan Cooper ’26 illustrates the blending of two lives.

The Indicator x The Student: “Braid Us”

Staff Writer at The Indicator Awa Diop ’26 portrays the fleeting friendship between two girls in an African braiding salon in “Braid Us.”

Val Hacks: The Best Breakfast Burrito

Ivy Haight ’25 presents your new favorite breakfast food in this edition of Val Hacks. Follow her simple recipe for a delicious breakfast burrito to make your mornings more savory (and sweet?)

“Turn Every Page” Fills Every Seat

On Monday, Amherst Cinema screened “Turn Every Page,” a documentary about the long-running professional relationship between editor Robert Gottlieb and writer Robert Caro. Managing News Editor Leo Kamin ’25 recaps the event, which included a discussion with director Lizzie Gottlieb ’93.

Time-Warped Records: “Hot Fuss”

In this edition of Time-Warped Records, Columnist Alden Parker ’26 reviews “Hot Fuss,” reflecting on the musical themes and young adult angst that helped propel The Killers’ debut album to success.

A Jazzy Night: Gemini and Modality

On Saturday, the Eighmy Powerhouse hosted back-to-back performances featuring the musical ensembles Gemini and Modality. Staff Writer Davis Rennella ’24 reviews the contrasting performances, from Gemini’s evocative musical landscapes to Modality’s unorthodox improvisation.

Spirituality and Song in “Myths and Hymns”

This weekend, the Theater & Dance Department debuted Sterling Kee ’23’s senior thesis performance “Myths and Hymns,” which explores themes of self-discovery and the human relationship to the divine. Olivia Lynch ’25 reflects on the transcendent nature of the performance.

Val Hacks: Milkshake Madness

In this edition of Val Hacks, Staff Writer Ivy Haight ‘25 makes creative use of the soft serve machine and the waffle station for her customizable milkshake recipe. Mix and match your favorite flavors and toppings for an unforgettable culinary experience!

“Ancestral Bridges”: Amherst’s Black and Afro-Indigenous History

“Ancestral Bridges,” a new exhibit that premiered in Frost last week, maps the history of a sixth-generation Black and Afro-Indigenous family in Amherst. Managing Arts & Living Editor Noor Rahman ’25 covers the opening reception, which features a photo gallery and historical artifacts.

Content, Creation, Come-Up: Gregory R. Smith III ’25

Kobe Thompson ’24 sits down with Gregory R. Smith III ’25, a multi-instrumentalist and songwriter who has recently risen in popularity, to discuss his process and his journey as a self-made musician.

“Gods and Monsters:” DC Studios’ Last-ditch Expansion

Last month, DC Studios announced the first chapter of their upcoming extended universe, with plans for ten new projects. Vaughn Armour ’25 sees this as the studio’s final attempt to shift towards a more cohesive and distinct cinematic universe.

Val Hacks: Strawberry Shortcake

“Val Hacks” is a column dedicated to exploring the culinary possibilities of Valentine Dining Hall. This week, Ivy Haight ’25 presents her recipe for strawberry shortcake.

Campus Art (and Food) for All

Students, staff, and faculty gathered in Valentine Hall for the “Campus Art for All Inaugural Exhibition,” featuring work from students and staff. Managing Arts and Living Editor Alex Brandfonbrener ’23 breaks down the story behind the event’s inception, as well as the artists’ inspirations.

A Tale of Two Theses in Buckley Recital Hall

On Feb. 4, the Music Department produced two senior theses: “The Second Seed,” a composition thesis by Sam Wright ’23, and “Einheitswanderschaft,” a vocal thesis by Patrick Spoor ’23.

Time-Warped Records: “Graceland”

In his inaugural edition of Time-Warped Records, Alden Parker ’26 reviews Paul Simon’s 1986 album “Graceland,” detailing Simon’s experience recording in South Africa during apartheid.

“Avatar: the Way of Water” is an All-American Blockbuster

“Avatar: The Way of Water” is the eagerly anticipated sequel to “Avatar,” but it left some fans wanting more. Ross Kilpatrick ’24E criticizes the film’s use of propaganda and uninspired writing.

The Indicator x The Student: “A Cross Walk in a Labyrinth”

In this piece, originally published in The Indicator's Fall 2022 issue, Senior Managing Editor Dustin Copeland ’25 tries to remember a bridge from his childhood.

The Indicator x The Student: “A School Day along 城門河”

Originally published in the Fall 2022 edition of the Indicator, Priscilla Lee ’25 writes about the experiences of young filmmakers in Hong Kong.

“Hostages” Documents Iranian Hostage Crisis

On Nov. 29, Shahruz Ghaemi ’19 hosted a screening of “Hostages,” a documentary series about the Iranian hostage crisis. Senior Managing Editor Theo Hamilton ’23 reflects on the series, on which Ghaemi worked as an archival producer.

Content, Creation, Come Up: Freeman Rabb ’25

Kobe Thompson ’24 sits down with Freeman Rabb ’25 to discuss their latest EP, “At A Catalyst,” how they create and name their work, and the friends and other artists who have provided inspiration along the way.

“Workshop” Doesn’t Need Any Work

This past weekend, Ghostlight presented “Workshop,” a play written and directed by Miles Garcia ’25. Joe Sweeney ’25 reviews the piece, expressing appreciation for its treatment of the unsaid.

Events You Might Have Missed…

Ahead of the end of the semester, many music, theater and dance groups at Amherst had their final performances … so many that we couldn’t cover them all! Here’s a quick recap of some of this week’s noteworthy events.

“In Worlds, As If”: A Multimedia Thesis of Dreams

On Dec. 1 to 3, the Theater and Dance Department produced “In Worlds, As If,” a joint thesis project from Hee Won Youn ‘23, Nick Govus ‘23E, and Julian Brown ‘23. The multimedia performance portrayed a haunting dream with unsettling imagery.

“Wakanda Forever” Fumbles the Legacy

“Wakanda Forever,” the much-anticipated sequel to “Black Panther,” is a film that delves into the complexities of Black grief. While largely successful, Mackenzie Dunson ’25 says the film could have had a stronger antagonist, rather than pitting POC communities against one another.

“The Banshees of Inisherin” Screams Out

“The Banshees of Inisherin” follows a man who cuts off his best friend for reasons seemingly unknown. Ross Kilpatrick ’24E reviews the darkly humorous and deeply reflective film.

The Indicator x The Student: “The Persimmon Tree”

Kei Lim ’25 explores the impacts of grief, love, and abandonment in a piece originally published in the Spring 2022 edition of the Indicator.

The Indicator x The Student: “Doe, a Deer”

Originally published in the Spring 2022 edition of the Indicator, Gabby Avena ’25 writes about the premature loss of innocence that comes with growing up as a woman.

“Survivor” Season 43: Episode 11, Reviewed

In episode 11 of “Survivor,” the contestants faced one of their most strenuous challenges to date. Vaughn Armour ’25 reviews the episode, which featured the downfall of one of his favorite players.

Archiving Vietnam Veterans’ Stories: A Thesis Exhibition

Starting this Thursday, Dec. 1, studio art major Emma Spencer’s ’23E thesis show, “So, What’s a Nice Girl Like You Doing In A Place Like This?” will be available for viewing. Spencer’s project, consisting of both photography and film, catalogues the stories of female Vietnam War veterans.

Context, Creation, Come Up: Kiiren Jackson ’24

In this edition of 3 C’s, Kobe Thompson ’24 sits down with rapper Kiiren Jackson ’24 to discuss an upcoming project that’s been years in the making.

“Survivor” Season 43: Episodes 9 & 10, Reviewed

Vaughn Armour ’25 reviews the last two episodes of “Survivor,” detailing the rise and fall of one competitor and some of this season’s best strategic plays.

Context, Creation, Come Up: Alex Russell ’23

For the inaugural edition of 3 C’s (Context, Creation, Come-Up), Kobe Thompson ’24 interviews musician Alex Russell ’23 ahead of his debut album “Stardust,” exploring his influences and creative process.

“An Invitation” From Amherst and Mount Holyoke Dance

Last weekend, Amherst College and Mount Holyoke College Dance Departments presented their Fall Faculty Dance Concert. Eren Levine ’24 reviews the performances, reflecting on each piece’s individuality.

Memories and Nostalgia in A24’s “Aftersun”

Charlotte Wells’ new film “Aftersun” is a visual representation of the cracks in our memories. Cole Warren ’24 reviews the movie, which follows a daughter reflecting on her father’s death upon becoming a mother herself.

“Survivor” Season 43: Episode 8, Reviewed

In episode eight of “Survivor,” this season’s potential victors begin to reveal themselves. Vaughn Armour ’25 tracks the up-and-coming competitors and one contestant’s personal backstory.

The Indicator x The Student: “Untitled”

Mariana Rivera-Donsky ’25 depicts a lonesome woman in “Untitled,” a short story originally published in the Spring 2022 issue of The Indicator.

The Indicator x The Student: “Broken Hinges”

Gracie Rowland ’25 explores lost hopes and dreams in “Broken Hinges,” a poem originally published in the Spring 2022 issue of The Indicator.

Worlds Collide: ASO, Choral Society, and Jazz Ensemble

For Family Weekend, Amherst musical ensembles collaborated on a performance to celebrate 100 years since voting rights were extended to women in the U.S. Managing Arts and Living Editor Alex Brandfonbrener ’23 recounts the powerful and thought-provoking concert.

Theater Takes Flight in “The Birdcage”

Green Room’s production of “The Birdcage” flew in for Family Weekend. Managing Arts and Living Editor Alex Brandfonbrener ’23 reviews the show, which aptly follows a young couple and the contentious union of their two families.

UMass Dance’s “Scheherazade” Is on Pointe

The UMass Dance Department presented a reproduction of “Scheherazade,” featuring dancers from all Five Colleges. Assistant Arts and Living Editor ’24 Sarah Weiner recaps the performance, which put forth a strong commentary on gender and power.

“Wendell & Wild” Diversifies Stop-motion Genre

Henry Selick, creator of iconic stop-motion animation films like “Coraline,” teamed up with Jordan Peele for “Wendell & Wild.” Erin Williams ’26 reviews the movie, which can sometimes feel bloated but is nonetheless an enjoyable ride.

“Survivor”: Season 43: Episode 7, Reviewed

In episode 7 of “Survivor,” castaways voted out the last member before jury. Vaughn Armour ’25 recaps the hilarious challenges and unexpected revelations that lead to a shocking elimination.

Who Was the Inauguration Really For?

Ross Kilpatrick ’24E reflects on the presidential inauguration of the Michael A. Elliott and the complex division between faculty and students at elite academic institutions.

Reflecting on the Itaewon-ro Stampede

On Saturday, Oct. 29, a stampede in the Itaewon district of Seoul, South Korea, claimed over 150 lives. Pho Vu ’23 reflects on the tragedy in Itaewon, a place that she herself has frequented.

Green Room’s “Cars: A Parody”: Kachow!

Green Room’s first production of the semester, “Cars: A Parody,” debuted on Oct. 21. Assistant Arts and Living Editor Noor Rahman ’25 reviews the show, noting the talent of the cast and the wit of the writing.

Swift’s Sun Starts To Set in “Midnights”

Taylor Swift’s latest album, “Midnights,” dropped last week to online buzz and record sales. Managing Arts and Living Editor and resident Taylor Swift expert Brianne LaBare ’25 analyzes Swift’s newest work.

“The Loneliest Time” Is a Great Time

Carly Rae Jepsen’s latest album “The Loneliest Time” was released on Oct. 21, 2022. Miles Garcia ’25 details the well-rounded album’s sparse weaknesses and many strengths.

“Survivor” Season 43: Episode 6, Reviewed

In episode six of “Survivor,” tensions between contestants intensify as the merge episode approaches. Vaughn Armour ’25 critiques their strategy, and details this episode’s surprises.

“Survivor” Season 43: Episode 5, Reviewed

Episode five of “Survivor” included a historically loathed twist and narrowed the castaway pool. Vaughn Armour ’25 describes his viewing experience, which was at times agonizing.

WAMH x The Student: Live Performances

Concerts have returned in full force, but are they as impactful as iconic pop performances of the past? Victoria Thomas ’25 reflects on her recent experiences seeing Harry Styles and Bruno Mars live.

The Indicator x The Student: “There is no stopping Her”

A’Cora Hickson ’25 portrays the realization of internalized emotions in “There is no stopping Her,” a poem originally published in the Spring 2022 issue of The Indicator.