Freshman Follies is a unique event that has been around at Oklahoma State University since 1970.
Each sorority pairs with a fraternity to form a cast of 30 freshmen that compete with their own 10 minute shows based on singing, dancing and "cheesing".
The show takes place each fall. Follies however, is easier said than done.
The pairing process begins with the cast directors (approximately four or five members from each sorority/fraternity), meeting in almost a speed dating setting. The pairing is a mutual process that is set in stone usually within the following day. This takes place in the spring semester prior to the school year of that year's follies show.
Once paired, the directors are able to begin brainstorming and creating. At the start of the fall semester, follies tryouts are held within each chapter. Fifteen girls and 15 boys make up the pairings' cast.
One song and dance is written, choreographed and taught to the "folliers". With these two things, the cast must audition on the Student Union Little Theatre for a panel of judges. Typically, only eight out of 13 casts make "the show".
This meaning those who advance, get a story line, characters and a whole show to perform from their directors. Those who do not are now done with Freshmen Follies. Making the show is an honor, and an experience filled with memories.
My personal favorite aspect of Follies is that in the grand scheme of things, it is a philanthropic event. Hearts for Hearing is benefitted through the ticket sales of seats in the union theatre during show week. This past year (2018) over $40,000 was donated to Hearts for Hearing from Freshman Follies.
The little theatre is always packed with parents, members of sororities/fraternities and other students at OSU. The people come to see each individual show that makes up the entire Freshman Follies production.
Each show consists of singing, dancing and "cheesing" (jumping around with flailing arms and intense emotion, yes I know how weird that sounds!) as a group- all with a main theme/plot that is portrayed. Costumes are worn to fit the theme and extreme makeup is worn. Any normal song can be used in the show- the kick however is that all lyrics are changed to fit the theme and plot of the show.
Theme, costumes, vocals and choreography are all decided and carried out through the cast directors, as mentioned earlier. Unlike members of their chapters, "folliers" and directors do not participate in "pomping" with their chapter for homecoming decks.
Up to 20 hours a week can be spent on preparing for Freshmen Follies. With this in mind, the casts create relationships that are capable of lasting their college careers- or even longer.
I met my first friends in college through Freshman Follies, many of which are my best friends.
In conclusion, Freshman Follies is a wonderful tradition that is unlike anything else. I hope to see friendships made and money raised for years to come.
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