Midway through Varsity Sing’s first season and the first four semi-finalists have been confirmed. Amid Goliaths UJ, Maties and UWC, is Varsity Sing’s very own David: Rhodes. The smallest choir in the competition managed to out-sing TUT, toppling the giants to reach the semi-finals.
But it isn’t only their vocals and technical ability that stood out for fans and listeners over the past few weeks. Rhodes University choir’s Twitter account has supported the onscreen performances of grace and poise, with flair and panache.
Much like their choir, Rhodes choir’s Twitter following is small, but their account has the guts, personality and courage of a David between Goliaths. Their humour had social media abuzz as early as their first appearance.
Super excited about our performance! Did you guys enjoy that? 😀 pic.twitter.com/dxYuV5nTaS
— Rhodes Choir [RUCC] (@RUChoir) August 4, 2016
We're on after the break! #VarsitySing #RUCC pic.twitter.com/IhKCtFX0Ch
— Rhodes Choir [RUCC] (@RUChoir) August 4, 2016
Making use of gifs and memes, they have added to Rhodes’ story, celebrating and expressing emotion as they reached the semi-finals. As if Rhodes choir didn’t already have bucketloads of personality, their social media presence is showing us their true character and bringing their fans closer than any other choir. Simply, while viewers will often feel as though they are distant acquaintances with the choirs, Rhodes will feel like a close friend to their followers.
https://twitter.com/RUChoir/status/763831986347794432
Not only have their tweets been light-hearted and humorous, but they have been extremely supportive and complimentary of the fellow participants, applauding performances and encouraging respect in a competition filled with healthy rivalry.
https://twitter.com/RUChoir/status/763811037061734400
It didn’t take followers long to notice that Rhodes were simply the best we’ve seen on Twitter. And it won’t be long before their following increases. Rhodes have applauded every one else. It’s time for us to applaud them.
Is there a social media prize for #VarsitySing because @RUChoir are on top form!! @varsitysportsSA @kykNETtv
— Jean Willers (@Jean_willers) August 11, 2016
And although it all seems like a bit of fun and banter and we all love to have a laugh; Rhodes’ social media presence is far more important than just providing a bit of comic relief. And perhaps there is method to their madness.
Should Rhodes make the final, the vote switches hands as the public have their say. And a choir that has won over viewers with their performances, while winning over an even greater number of followers in an audience infinitely larger than TV and auditoriums, could see David grow to the stature of Goliath, as the dark horse canters its way onto the podium.
And we can only imagine what their Twitter account would have in store for us should they go all the way. It’s certainly something worth tweeting about.
Catch Rhodes in the semi-finals on 15 and 22 September at 20:30 live on kykNET. And be sure to follow them on Twitter: @RUChoir.
