By LINDA COOKE

“American Spirit” was a fitting name for this group. It was a spirited performance.

The energy level was atmospheric! The 10 performers danced, sang, leaped, twirled, and changed costumes with meteoric speed. I found myself watching to see if someone’s previous outfit showed beneath the new one, but not once did I see any odd piece of clothing peeking out. The change of scenery was almost as frequent as the costumes and accomplished just as smoothly.

And who cares how they do it, anyway? These people were good! The premise of “American Spirit” was sort of a retrospective in song and dance of highlights through the years.

It wasn’t a completely random selection of music according to the program, which started with Celebration USA, Founding Fathers, Roaring Twenties and the Great Depression, Civil War and spirituals. After the intermission it was State Fair, the Industrial Revolution, Age of Aquarius, War, Hymn to the Fallen, and Of Thee I Sing.

The music was terrific and so memorable. There was “Good Old Summertime,” “Hello, My Baby,” “Daisy, Daisy,” “Strike up the Band,” “Down by the Riverside,” “A Sucker is Born Every Minute,” “Take Me Out to the Ballgame,” “Mr. Touchdown,” “Age of Aquarius” (oh, do I remember that one), and “Where Have All the Flowers Gone.” Then the patriotic ones like “God Bless America,” “Battle Hymn of the Republic” and the national anthem were sung by Courtney Billiot, a Morgan City High School student.

Having the Tuneweavers choral group join the “American Spirit” people was an especially nice touch. They sang “Swing Low, Sweet Chariot,” and then joined in with the final patriotic selections.

The war scenario was particularly touching with duets of performers — one dressed in period costume, one a sweetheart — reciting a letter from a soldier. That was a tearjerker.

I believe the only bad thing about “American Spirit” was the disappointing turn out of audience. This concert deserved a packed house. Thanks to all of you who came and shame on those who did not.

What more can you possibly want for only $45? Even if you only attend one concert, the price is cheap!

Put this on your calendar. The next Morgan City Community Concert is Monday, Feb. 6, featuring tenor Mark Masri.