As a result, BSU members had to make impromptu arrangements to accommodate the guests while the caterers had to ration the food. Even so, many guests missed out on the chicken and corn bread that was served.
Despite the problems wrought by over-attendance, BSU members reacted optimistically to the turnout. "The highlight of the event was when I was running around in heels stressing about not having enough chairs or space for everyone," said Sneed. "It sounds kind of crazy, but that's when I realized how successful the event was."
The Student Activities Office, the President's Office, the Association of Amherst Students (AAS), Theatrix and Valentine Dining Hall Services all supported the BSU in planning the event.
Sneed said that all students performed to honor and pay their respects to the important figures of the Harlem Renaissance and to celebrate black heritage.
Michael Yang '07, a member of the band Unshaded, which played at the event, echoed Sneed. "[The goal of Unshaded's performance was to] convey the influence of jazz musicians of the past such as Wayne Shorter, John Coltrane and Bill Evans on current muscial aesthetics by playing original compositions and arrangements of well-known standards inspired by them," said Yang.
The Harlem Renaissance program consisted of a series of student performances such as a French and English reading of Leopald S. Senghor's "Femme Noir" by Dominique de Vastey '07, two songs written and performed by Jean-Claude Desrosiers '07 and various jazz pieces.
Many first time attendees were pleased by the event. "I found [Harlem Renaissance] to be one of the most fascinating experiences I have had at Amherst," said Raj Borsellino '09E. "What was particularly striking to me was the incredible authenticity of the event-not too overdone, but flowing with culture and excitement."
"I thought the performers were all great," said Phuong Vuong '09. "My favorites were the singers. I didn't realize all these people had such beautiful voices!"
While guests marvelled at their classmates' talents, performers commented on the encouraging environment the attendees created. Miguel Gonzalez-Hernandez '10, who shared his beatboxing abilities, said, "I have been beatboxing for a year, and this is one of the most receptive crowds I've ever performed in front of."
Guests also commented on how organized this year's event was, noting that it helped to enhance the evening. "The event left me at awe at what the people in our college are capable of," said James Park '08. "This is one of the few events of the year that always seemed to be extremely well organized, well attended, serving a meaningful purpose and just plain old fun to go to."
Overall, both guests and organizers responded positively to Harlem Renaissance. "This is the best Harlem Renaissance I have seen in my [three] years at Amherst," said Sneed. "[Emeritus Dean of Students Onawumi Jean Moss] who was luckily able to attend the event said it was in the top [five] that she has ever seen."
Jordan McKay '07, who helped organize Harlem Renaissance, agreed, saying that out of the four Harlem Renaissances he has attended, this year's was definitely the best.
For next year, BSU plans to expand the budget and hopes to better accommodate an even larger crowd. According to Sneed, BSU is hoping to have approximately 500 guests at the 2007 Harlem Renaissance. "Watch out for Harlem Renaissance," said Sneed. "It only gets better."