By Hannah Melcher
Katherine Krutsick said she is looking forward to taking the stage for the second time at Bellaroo Saturday.
“The first time around I had a lot of support,” Krutsick said. “I signed up again because I had such a good experience during my first time.”
Bellaroo is Bellarmine’s Housing and Residence Life’s annual music festival that invites students and staff to showcase their musical talents.
The event takes place from 3 to 9 p.m. in Frazier Hall.
Krutsick said she had been in choir through high school. After graduation, she bought a guitar and taught herself how to play it.
Krutsick said she will be showcasing both skills at Bellaroo.
“My approach to performing is to create a welcoming environment where everyone can have a good time,” Krutsick said.
Krutsick said she has missed concerts and is excited that Bellaroo is returning.
“I am excited to not only be able to share some live music, but also to experience other people performing live again,” Krutsick said.
Elaine Surdyke, Residence Life Coordinator (RLC) for the Siena complex, said the Housing and Residence Life Office is looking forward to holding Bellaroo again.
“Bellaroo was cancelled last year due to the university’s closing,” Surdyke said. “So we are really excited to be able to hold the event this year.”
The idea for Bellaroo began in 2013 as a concert series to promote the amphitheater in the Siena Complex. The series was then expanded and Bellaroo began that spring.
The RLCs and resident assistants on campus help plan and manage Bellaroo.
Cayden Hambrick, resident assistant for the second floor of Newman, said she is looking forward to working at Bellaroo.
“I am so excited to see the students and all their talent,” Hambrick said. “I am mainly in charge of setting up for the event, but I will be able to work some of the activities, too.”
This year’s Bellaroo will feature nine different students/groups.
Students can expect performances from Andrew O’Neill, The Next Act, Sarah Barry and others.
Local vendors like Steel City Pops and Comfy Cow will offer treats at the event. Dining and Catering will provide some fun foods for students to try as well.
Dinner at Palio will offer a special BBQ for the event and some festival-themed items.
There will be yard games, a DJ playing music between sets and a few giveaways for students, including Bellaroo beach towels and sunglasses.
Surdyke said she believes students will have a great time at Bellaroo.
“This will be a great way to celebrate a tough but successful year,” Surdyke said. “It will provide a space for students to relax before study week and finals are here.”