Feb. 24, 2021, marked the end of Topper Idol 2021. This week the contestants were allowed to sing any song of their choosing. Despite this, it seemed that all the participants picked Broadway-like songs. The judges were Jared Thompson, Madison Linzy, and Christopher McPherson and Yodev Ocasio hosted.

The first singer of the night was Charli McConnell. She performed “I Dreamed A Dream” from the musical “Les Misérables.” This is a difficult Broadway piece to sing, or as Christopher McPherson put it, “an all-time Broadway Banger.” The judges asked McConnell why she chose this song to which she replied, “I chose this song because I loved the Broadway round, and Les Mis seemed like the obvious choice. My sister also encouraged me to sing it.” McConnell is originally from Richmond, Ohio, and is a History Political-Science major with a minor in Criminal Justice at West Liberty University. She is also a Hall Director in Curtis Hall.

Next was Alexia Schmader who sang “With You” from “Ghost: The Musical.” When asked about the Topper Idol competition, Schmader commented, “It is such an honor to be a part of it. Even though it may not be a big event for everyone, it is to me. It is a huge honor to be grouped with all of this talent. My favorite round was this one, and I feel so lucky to have made it this far.” Schmader is from South Park, PA, and is a Music Education major. She is minoring in Creative Writing which assists with her love for writing original music pieces.

The final performance of the night was Emily Rudy with her rendition of “Shallow” from “A Star is Born.” Rudy, like the other two contestants, said that she enjoyed the Broadway round. The judges once again asked why this was the song choice to which the answer was, “I picked this song because I love “A Star is Born.” Also, if I could be any singer, I would be Lady Gaga. As soon as I heard this song for the first time, I knew I had to sing it in front of people.” Rudy is an Ecology, Evolution, and Organismal Biology major with a minor in Political Science. She is originally from Martinsburg, WV. Rudy is also the host of “What’s Up West Lib” and a Resident Assistant in Curtis Hall.

The big winner of the night was Alexia Schmader. Emily Rudy placed second and Charli McConnell placed third. Each contestant received a basket of West Liberty University merchandise. In addition to that, Schmader received a $1000 scholarship, Rudy $500, and McConnell $250.