(Photo courtesy of Chloe Christensen)
The Scoop met with Drury University Pi Beta Phi’s Director of Service and Philanthropy, Chloe Christensen, to tell us how to prepare for the chapter’s philanthropy event, Puttin’ on the Lips (POL).
“This is our biggest event of the year and it is highly attended by the Drury community. It’s an event with lots of fun and great involvement.”
Puttin’ on the Lips is an event in memory of one of Pi Beta Phi’s sisters, Andrea Newbold, who tragically died in 2001 due to a drunk driving accident.
The event features lip sync and dance performances from various Drury student organizations and athletics. The event raises awareness about the dangers of driving drunk, and all donations go towards supporting children’s literacy initiatives.
“A lot goes into the preparation for this event,” said Christensen. “Our chapter has been working on getting things ready since the summer! While it is an exciting night, the process leading up to it can be very stressful. We want to get as many Drury organizations involved as we can get. Some of the concerns I’ve gotten are not having enough time or confusion on what they have to do for the performance.”
To clear up on these concerns, here is a step-by-step process to prepare for POL.
Step 1: Form a team
(Photo courtesy of Tori Harding)
“If you are a student-athlete, part of an organization on campus, or just a student wanting to do something fun with your friends, gather up your teammates, members, or friends and form a POL team! There is no maximum number of participants per team. Once you have a group, don’t forget to create a team name.”
Step 2: Fill out the team registration form
(Photo courtesy of Chloe Christensen)
“After you have created a team, make sure to fill out the team registration form found here or in the @drurypiphi bio. The form provides an overview of the event, participation fee which is $70 per team, and guidelines. Each team will need to provide their team name, participants, contact information, and form of payment.” The deadline to register is November 9, 2024.
Step 3: Music selection
“Our theme for POL this year is ‘heartbreak’ so make sure to pick music that matches this vibe. We ask that the music does not contain inappropriate language or references to alcohol. Routines also have an approximate time duration of 2-7 minutes.” Teams must submit their music to piphimogammadp@gmail.com by November 12, 2024.
Step 4: Create a routine
“Once your team has chosen music, you can start creating your routine! For inspiration, Pi Phi likes to look at past POL performances, lip sync performances on YouTube, or TikTok trends. Pi Phi also offers choreographing assistance if groups need help. The competition is not based on dance skill level, so don’t be worried if you’re not the best dancer! Find a space and start practicing!”
Step 5: Pick out an outfit
“Many teams have dressed up to match the theme the past few years. While themed outfits are encouraged, they are not required. Props are also allowed, but they will not increase your group’s probability of winning the competition.”
Step 7: Showtime!
“Each group will be contacted about their assigned time when they can practice on the stage for their performance. Once the event starts, they will be directed to their reserved seats and wait for their time to perform. After all the teams have gone, the three judges will reveal the winner of the event and hand out a trophy.”
“Puttin’ on the Lips is more than just a fun event, it’s a way for the Drury community to come together for a great cause. Whether you’re performing or just coming to watch, we hope everyone leaves feeling entertained and inspired by the important message behind it.”
Puttin’ on the Lips will take place at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 19, 2024 at the Mabee Performing Arts Center, Clara Thompson Hall, Drury University, 900 N Benton Ave, Springfield, MO 65802. Tickets are $7.00 for one entry. Raffles, snacks, and t-shirts will also be available for purchase.
