Syracuse Graduate Students Share Insights Gleaned During Spoleto Season
In a unique educational experience, eight graduate students from Syracuse University immersed themselves in the cultural tapestry of Charleston during the Spoleto festival season. Throughout their three-week tenure, the scholars explored the festival’s richness, learning from their experiences and sharing fresh insights.
The Enriching Experiences
A diverse set of experiences colored the students’ stay in Charleston. For Ethan Stinson, a visit to the Terrace Theater was a standout experience. As a film enthusiast, he drew a warm parallel between the theater’s retro aesthetics, matching the carpet with Jack Nicholson’s mesmerizing performance in “The Shining.” On a singular afternoon, Stinson engulfed himself in the cinematic world, witnessing a double feature of the limited release, “Young Woman and the Sea,” followed by a light-hearted children’s film, “The Garfield Movie,” highlighting the theater’s variegated appeal.
Za’Tozia Duffie underwent a cultural and gastronomical feast during her time in Charleston. She admired the architectural marvels of Rainbow Row and delved into the life stories of the individuals behind them. The city’s cuisine also regaled Duffie with treats ranging from Rudy Royale’s chicken sandwiches to the cherished southern dish, shrimp and grits at Slightly North of Broad.
Navigating Charleston’s Historic Terrain
Being first-timers in Charleston, the students enjoyed the city’s walkability, favoring local parks, lakes, and storied streets. Sarah Merke found a distinct delight in the boutique shops and cafés and made a point to recommend the International African American Museum for a rich cultural immersion. Moreover, Greta Stuckey was charmed by the tranquil scene at Colonial Lake, around which she developed a routine of morning runs and evening walks.
Alex in Wonderland
There was an unusual thrill for students who journeyed to unfamiliar territories. Jaden Wilson’s adventurous spirit led her to the vibrant Folly Beach, otherwise known as the Edge of America, and to the International African American Museum. Her culinary trips around the city crossed paths with a tantalizing breakfast at Another Broken Egg, featuring the house specialties apricot streusel pancakes and berry dragonfruit French toast.
Charleston’s Queer Underbelly
Brandon Wallace found an enticing exploration of Charleston’s vibrant queer community. From grand-stage performances at Spoleto Festival USA, such as L.A. Dance Project’s “Romeo and Juliet Suite” to local productions like Dudley’s show of “Chicago” by drag queens and kings, Wallace was fascinated by the city’s diverse cultural stands.
More than savouring the languid charm of Charleston or enjoying the culinary delights, these students cherished the opportunity to interact with the city and its people. They discovered assertiveness and poise, learnt timeliness, and understood the importance of accuracy in their journalistic endeavors.
The heartening, as well as challenging experiences they gathered in their stint with Charleston, went beyond being tourists. It led them through an enlightening journey of education, adaptation, and growth. This unique practical exposure, with its ups and downs, served as a real-world textbook, equipping them with invaluable insights and experience.
