Euphoria! impresses crowds, judges

Crowds flocked to the Dalhousie Arts Centre on February 17, 2024, as Dalhousie medical students took to the stage for the 54th performance of Euphoria! to raise funds for Chroma NB, a non-profit organization that provides support for 2SLGBTQIA+ people in the Saint John Region. 

Every year since 1969, Dalhousie Medical School students have hosted the variety show, with funds raised going to a charity of their choosing. All four classes face off, showcasing their amazing artistic, theatrical and musical talents, for bragging rights and the coveted Euphoria! trophy. 

With planning led by VP Internal Affairs for the Dalhousie Medical Student Society (DMSS), Mara McNeil (Class of 2026), and supported by a dedicated team consisting of Euphoria! co-chairs, members of the DMSS, and the social committee, Euphoria! 2024 saw nearly 250 medical students participate in the high-energy evening. The students, who are extremely eager to participate, often begin planning their performances well before the academic year even begins, spending countless hours writing scripts, practicing dances, building sets, and developing media.  

The Med 1s kicked off the festivities with a witty spoof on the Hunger Games, blending humor with poignant reflections on the journey to medical school. The Med 2s dazzled with their homage to the 80s, their infectious energy igniting the stage with vibrant dance numbers, nostalgic tunes, and a journey that followed a young Dean Anderson through various medical specialties. 

Amidst cheers and applause, the Med 3s whisked the audience away with Dr. Frizzle and the Magic School Bus on a trip through the human body, with incredible choreography and impressive vocals. And the Med 4s, with a poignant glance towards the future, explored futuristic medicine and their specialty training with a journey through time, and a performance that was a touching tribute to their years at Dalhousie. 

Judges Drs. Jack Rasmussen, Tiffany O’Donnell, and Bruce Crooks faced a difficult decision, but ultimately named the Class of 2026 (Med 2s) victorious. Their energy in their dance performances, engaging plot, and incredible collaboration between Dalhousie Medicine Nova Scotia and Dalhousie Medicine New Brunswick earned them the trophy for 2024.  

It was an unforgettable evening of celebration for all those involved, with more than $43,000 raised in support of Chroma NB.