The Black United Students and the Center for African American Students sponsored the first Black United Students Talent Night at Marco's in the basement of the MSC. 

Fran L. Jackson, program assistant II for the Center for African American Students, said she was excited about the talent show. 

"This is the first time we have ever done this," she said. "We did it because we thought it would be fun for all of the students. This is a great opportunity for everyone to get together to showcase each others' talents, enjoy each other and celebrate black history." 

The show was open to the public and about 60 to 70 people filled the room. 

The sounds of talking and laughter could be heard as the final preparations were made before the show. 

After a few announcements, the show began. Participants drew numbers out of a basket to determine what order they would go. 

Eleven participants entertained the crowd with poems, songs and scriptures. 

One of the poems was entitled "Let My People Go," and the different songs included "One Last Cry" and a version of "The Lord's Prayer." 

Jackson said the show was great. 

"The turnout was really well, and I'm pleased with the number of participants," she said. "If this is done again in the future, it will be even bigger and better." 

Crystal R. Richardson was one of the participants. Richardson, a sophomore health care management major from Charleston, sang an a cappella rendition of "The Lord's Prayer." 

"I wasn't nervous," Richardson said. "I sing all the time. I sing in the Committed to Christ Gospel Choir at Marshall and at church." 

Despite all of the talent, there were no awards given out for the best act. 

"It's not about competition," Jackson said. "Just about fun."

Story by Courtney Ross