Saturday Opening Show
Over 7,200 Arrowmen were introduced to the 2009 NOAC theme "The Power of One" at the 2009 opening show. Dramatic staging, entertaining presentations and inspirational messages set the theme for the conference.
After contending with long cramped flights or car rides, Arrowmen were ready to get this NOAC started! Everyone is on campus, gear is stowed in rooms, training and competition schedules checked and double-checked and the first IU-provided meal has been consumed. But it just doesn’t feel like NOAC has quite started…until the opening show!
It began with a carnival-like atmosphere outside Assembly Hall as Arrowmen gathered anxiously waiting for the doors to open. Once inside, Arrowmen enjoyed the pre-show activities. Five lucky Arrowmen were selected to watch the show from the now famous NOAC Order of the Arrow Skybox, a private, raised platform complete with micro suede chairs, refreshments, and two attractive female hostesses. The Skybox offers some of the best seats in the house.
Many Arrowmen had their first opportunity to witness the installation of the 2009 national chief, vice chief, and region chiefs of our Order.
Jack O'Neill, the National Chief made an inspirational keynote address helping define the meaning of out conference theme, "The Power of One." Dan Higham, the National Vice Chief and our four Regional Chiefs described what is new for our members at this year's conference.
A traditional highlight of the opening show, the parade of lodges followed our national anthem. Hundreds of Arrowmen representing their individual lodges carried oversized lodge flaps processed from four entrances toward the stage.
For the first time technology is playing a significant role in broadcasting and reinforcing the theme. From the website NOAC Live!, social networking, PowerTags, mobile browsing, and text messaging, Arrowmen are actually encouraged to use their mobile phones.
Revised 8/2/2009