By GRAHAM BROOKS / Staff Writer

MONTEVALLO–A month of preparation might sound like a lot of time to prepare for something, but when it comes to UM’s College Night, a month to put together a whole musical production seems like a blink of an eye.

All that hard-work and preparation was showcased on Saturday, Feb. 14 in the Palmer Auditorium as the Purple and Gold sides faced off for the 97^th time.

Chelsea Orr, a senior studying music and a vocal coach on the Gold Side, has been a part of College Night ever since her freshman year and she talked about the long standing UM tradition.

“I always forget how long the tradition has been going on and to run in to cute little old ladies who say ‘I was a gold leader in the 50s and its completely different,’ that’s my favorite part,” said Orr. “I just love hearing different peoples experiences.”

After both sides completed their performances, both sides anxiously awaited to see who would be victorious. Instead of just announcing a winner, the UM SGA President will say a familiar phrase or line from the show to proclaim the winner.

The line “When we stick together we have nothing to fear,” was uttered and an explosion of cheers and happiness rang out from the Gold Side, signifying a victory.

For Orr, it was a relief to hear the phrase and the reaction was much different this time compared to last year.

“Just hearing the phrase just lifted all the weight off my shoulders and the happiness you feel knowing it was for something that we won back,” said Orr. “Last year we only lost by two points and that was frustrating and to know that we finally came through it was amazing and I’m glad I ended my career with a win.”

The Gold Side’s production was titled “Diamond in the Rough,” and was led by Stacy Daniels and Madison Imbusch.