DNA Cafe turns Interstellar at Winter Formal 2018

This year, SMIC-I Student Council decided to host Winter Formal 2018: Interstellar at DNA Cafe, a modern and stylish restaurant in the heart of Puxi near West Nanjing Road. Tickets began selling on December 3, and over the course of a few weeks, many students had bought tickets, promising a large crowd on December 15. On the night of the dance, DNA Cafe (also known as Fun Bar), was bedecked in colorful lights, balloons, and other decorations. There was a refreshment table towards the front of the cafe, offering all kinds of fruit, soft drinks, and other snacks. Nearby, students clustered in groups and put on their very best smiles as the camera flashed. In front of the makeshift stage was the dance floor, where students danced to songs such as “Closer,” “Despacito,”  and “Call Me Maybe.”  There were also live performances from the students. Off to the left side of the dance floor was a cozy, warmly-lit area with cushions and games, perfect for a brief repose from the dancing and loud music. 

Throughout the evening, students voted for their favorite couples. Excitement rose as king, queen, prince, and princess were announced. Midway through their slow dance, the couples switched dancing partners so that the king and prince and the queen and princess danced together, warranting laughs from the crowd. 

A glance at the clock showed that it was nearing 9 p.m. There would be one last slow dance and the final hurrah before the night was well and truly finished. Out on the floor, couples and friends alike swayed to the slow beat of Ed Sheeran’s “Perfect”, then Charlie Puth’s “One Call Away.”  Overhead, strobing lights and a mini disco ball bathed the walls and floors with color. To the side, people leaned against walls and sat on chairs; others went searching for refreshments.

Wynston Wong (9A) commented that the dance was “very lively,” and “the food is [also] nice.” Andy Chen (11C) added that “the drinks are great.” Another student pointed out that the DJ was “amazing.” Regarding her performance of “Let You Love Me” by Rita Ora, Isha Shirsat (9B) remarked, “I was overwhelmed by how many people were cheering me on and encouraging [me], so I wasn’t nervous.”  Winter Formal, as a whole, was a success.

Feature Image – A group of sophomores pose for a picturePhoto Courtesy of Clarisse Lo

by Esther Wu