NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y. (Dec. 24, 2025) — The Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle rang in the holiday season with a vibrant showcase of young talent Dec. 19 at the Remington Clubhouse, where more than 100 youth performers sang, danced and recited poetry for a crowd of over 100 attendees.
Thirteen-year-old Club member Mikayla Williams took center stage to perform Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You.”
The evening featured performances organized by grade level, with Remington Clubhouse Director Yolanda Roberson serving as emcee. Kindergartners swayed and sang “Jingle Bell Rock” in front of a festive Christmas tree. Second graders performed a hearty version of Mariah Carey’s “Oh, Santa.” Third graders danced to “Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree,” spinning and waving their arms. Fourth graders presented a fan dance with rhythmic clapping, stomping and a finale of handstands. Fifth graders recited an original holiday poem and bowed ceremoniously at the end.
The middle school group, including Williams, closed out the teenage performances with a Rockettes-style kick line to “All I Want for Christmas Is You.”
Thirteen-year-old Erica Boateng, a student at Albert Leonard Middle School, admitted she felt both excited and nervous before taking the stage.
“I was excited, but nervous too,” she said.
Her co-performer Paige Mickens, who rehearsed with the group for two weeks, said the preparation helped.
“I was completely calm in the moment,” Mickens said. She credited the presence of siblings and friends in the audience, adding, “That made me more confident. My friends were there for me, too.”
The first graders provided the finale, marching into the gymnasium dressed as Santa’s elves carrying a banner that read “We Wish You A Merry Christmas,” along with a wagon and two bins of wrapped holiday gifts. One youngster leading the group shouted, “Merry Christmas!” to the crowd, drawing massive applause.
Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle CEO Becky Mazzanobile praised the event. “The Holiday Showcase truly highlighted the exuberance, talents and confidence of our Club youths of all ages,” she said. “This was a wonderful way to wrap up 2025 and show the care, love and support each of our children have as they demonstrate their artistry and explore their full potential.” She thanked Club staff and family members for their support.
Several dignitaries attended and offered praise. Congressman George Latimer, representing the 16th District, New Rochelle Mayor Yadira Ramos-Herbert, and Westchester County Board of Legislators member Terry Clements.
This article was drafted with the aid of Grok, an AI tool by xAI, under the direction and editing of Robert Cox to ensure accuracy and adherence to journalistic standards.
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