The title of the Woodbridge High School Winter Colorguard’s competitive performance for this season’s Mid-Atlantic Indoor Network circuit reflects a circus-themed show.

“Under the Big Top,” however, could also have a double meaning, reflecting the highly competitive performing arts organization’s mission of inclusivity that ensures all its members are united beneath one tent.

“We very much follow the ideal that all kids should be included, no matter what their skill level, ability, grade, or age,” said Karolina Holmstrom, who along with Lisa Murtha directs the winter colorguard.

“Our organization includes marching band, indoor percussion, and all performing arts. Everybody deserves a place in the arts and the family that comes out of it. So we work hard to include students with special needs and with medical needs and tailor (rehearsals and performances) to them. We learn together so everybody can grow through that.”

Holmstrom said the philosophy of embracing students with special and medical needs aligns with the mission of The Marisa Tufaro Foundation, which serves pediatric patients and children in need throughout the greater Middlesex County area.

As a result, the winter colorguard selected the nonprofit as the beneficiary of its latest service project, with all proceeds from a bake sale benefiting The Marisa Tufaro Foundation.

“Our students decided the proceeds would best benefit (the) foundation as (its) mission aligns with our philosophy of inclusivity, togetherness, and charity,” Holmstrom said. “We hope the funds can positively benefit children in Middlesex County through the generous help of the foundation.”

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Since its inception in July 2017, The Marisa Tufaro Foundation has donated nearly $450,000 to fulfill its mission.

The nonprofit, which makes community service an integral part of its mission, has also spearheaded multiple initiatives, resulting in the collection of thousands of toys, nonperishable food items, winter coats, baby supplies, children’s books, school supplies, and other items for donation upon which the nonprofit has placed no monetary value.

The foundation has awarded 50 college scholarships totaling $36,500 to high school seniors including 12 from Woodbridge Township and sent 31 elementary and middle school students to a weeklong summer art camp at Rutgers University’s Zimmerli Art Museum.

“We are appreciative beyond words to the Woodbridge High School Winter Colorguard for selecting our nonprofit as the beneficiary of its fundraiser,” said Cyndi Tufaro, the foundation’s executive director.

“We’ve been blessed beyond words with amazing support from so many people, including the entire Woodbridge school community. Our nonprofit doesn’t take a second donated or a penny raised for granted. The kindness of Woodbridge High School has been extraordinary. The winter colorguard’s benevolence is a microcosm of that generosity.”

Woodbridge’s Winter Colorguard consists of 11 students, many of whom also participate in the marching band during the fall. Alumni and parents assist with costumes and props.

Winter colorguard is a competitive indoor performing arts ensemble that spins flags, rifles, and sabers, and incorporates dance and other interpretive movements to tell a story set to music.

Focusing on teamwork and artistic growth, the winter colorguard rehearses about 10 hours each week over three days (Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays) in preparation of competitions, which will be held this season in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania and Delaware.

The Mid-Atlantic Indoor Network circuit includes four regional competitions, the first of which will take place Feb. 14, and a state competition slated for April 18 and April 19 at Lehigh University’s ice hockey arena, the largest venue at which the Woodbridge Winter Colorguard will perform.

The winter colorguard’s “Under The Big Top” performance will feature circus-themed costumes with performers augmenting their core equipment with hula hoops, silks, and ribbons.

Woodbridge’s show will also incorporate circus-themed solo moments for performers including juggling, gymnastics, Chinese yo-yo, yoga balances, and more as “Under The Big Top” will play to the ensemble’s individual talents and strengths.

“Everything is done within the circus theme,” Holmstrom explained, “as if they are performers inviting the audience for a fun circus show.”