North High School's Culture Fair Shines as a Living Mosaic of Culture, Talent and Unity

Flags waved high, music filled the air and laughter echoed through the halls as North High School once again transformed into a vibrant global stage for its annual culture fair — a long-standing tradition that reflects the rich backgrounds and talents of North High School’s student body.

From the moment Mrs. Cottrill welcomed the crowd and stepped into her role as emcee for the opening fashion show, the energy was electric. Students strutted down the runway, modeling traditional clothing from around the world — vivid saris, bold African prints, embroidered Nepali dresses and more. The show wasn’t just about fashion; it was about heritage, identity and pride.

Mrs. Cottrill paused to recognize a quiet but meaningful addition to the event: new flag stands lining the stage, built by Eagle Scout Aidan Silcox of Hudson High School. It was a small but powerful reminder of the strength of community and collaboration — even across school districts.

The stage then welcomed the North choir, directed by Mrs. Hunter, who led a heartfelt performance of the alma mater. As students rose to sing together, the moment captured the deep sense of belonging that defined the day.

At one point, a slideshow lit up the screen above the stage, mapping the Culture Fair’s journey from its first year to its place now as a defining event at North High School — highlighting how, year after year, it has provided a space for new groups of students to share their stories, backgrounds and experiences.

From there, the stage belonged to the students — and they did not disappoint.

Kana and Kahindo, the day’s charismatic emcees, kept the show moving with warmth, humor and the kind of joyful banter that made the auditorium feel like a living room full of family and friends. Together, they introduced more than a dozen performances that showcased the richness of North’s community.

There was poetry — deeply personal and powerfully delivered — by Mrs. Hall’s Creative Writing class. Their collaborative pantoum poem, built from “Where I’m From” pieces, revealed a classroom that spans continents, languages and faiths, yet finds unity in storytelling.

There were dances from the Tamang and Gurung cultures of Nepal, musical tributes to African American heritage and theater culture, and even a high-energy K-pop performance from a North freshman that had the crowd on their feet. A drag performance by student Eriden Rose brought color and courage to the stage, reminding everyone that culture is as much about personal expression as it is tradition.

The show also featured familiar faces in new lights — including a surprise Broadway-inspired sketch comedy act by a staff member known only as “The Word Nerd” and her legendary co-star, reminding students that even teachers have secret talents.

Among the many powerful moments was the performance by The Black Beans, a student dance group whose talent has taken them to stages across Ohio, including Playhouse Square and the Ohio Dance Festival. Representing the cultures of Tanzania and Uganda, they brought the audience to its feet with a show of rhythm, pride and precision.

The most emotional moment came with the final act: “Thank You, North,” performed live by longtime staff member Mr. Lillie, who is retiring at the end of the school year. His original song — an anthem of appreciation for the North community — invited students to rise and represent their cultures as their names were called, bringing the event to a joyous, full-hearted finale. As performers flooded the stage for a final curtain call, the spirit of the day was unmistakable.

“Culture Fair is who we are,” said Principal Morrison. “It is the story of North — told through dance, music, poetry and laughter. Every year, it reminds us that we are more than just a school. We’re a family.”

From the artistry on stage to the decorations that turned the gym into a global village, this year’s culture fair was a vivid reminder that, at North High School, the world isn’t just studied in textbooks — it is lived, celebrated and embraced every single day.

North High School: Where the World Comes Together.

Click here to watch the recorded live stream.