A few weeks prior to the homecoming concert, a variety of sentiments swirled throughout both campuses regarding the announcement of Top-40 duo Icona Pop as the 2015 KSU Homecoming headliners. Some expressed feelings of disappointment while others were surprised, yet open to the “I Love It” songstresses’ presence on our campus, but a controversy was created nonetheless.
Talks of the homecoming committee sending out a poll to Kennesaw State students to determine this year’s homecoming performers began to spring up once less than desirable comments about the concert began circulating.
“I was never faced with any kind of survey, but I would have loved to do one,” Julianne Pham, a senior and Communication major said. “I heard after the fact that there were some artists I think a majority would have really like to see here for homecoming.”
Soon after the show announcement, it was further disclosed that Night Owl Productions would be taking on facilitating the event to be held at Fifth Third Bank Stadium. Box Office and Marketing Manager Maggie Gendernalik cited feelings of excitement when it came to being able to take on the challenge, “We are more than willing and capable to help out any entity of Kennesaw State University in any way!” Gendernalik said. “We pride ourselves in being a part of homecoming and I know this team strives to cater to the students and make the best of everything we are lucky enough to be a part of.”
In the days leading up to the concert, the efforts of the Night Owl team were seen around both Kennesaw and Marietta campuses with bottles of bubbles showcasing a foam party addition to the concert.
On the day of, the foam flowed and a crowd of excited Icona Pop fans filled the Fifth Third Bank Stadium track & field lot adjoining Radow Way. Show openers, and KSU students KZ and Brittnee Camelle primed the stage for Icona Pop to come out and do an amazing, interactive, and quite personal set.
Despite mixed feelings and rumors of low-ticket sales the event ended up being everything a good show should, a matter to be anticipated with a satisfying result for all in attendance. A certain amount of gratitude is to be given to the KSU 2015 Homecoming Committee, and Night Owl productions for putting on a show fit for the inaugural football season.
