NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y., Dec. 23, 2025 – Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle member Mikayla Williams, 13, had two goals when taking centerstage to perform “All I Want for Christmas Is You” by Mariah Carey at the Club’s Holiday Showcase: “Having fun and showing what we can do!”
Williams and her fellow teenage singers and dancers did just that, delivering a rousing rendition of the holiday classic for more than 100 attendees Dec. 19 at the Club’s Remington Clubhouse. Afterward, Williams was thrilled. “We did our thing!,” she exclaimed.
That dazzling performance was among several as the Boys & Girls Club presented a vibrant evening of holiday spirit, festive songs and dances choreographed to beloved holiday classics – and even recited an original poem. All earned thunderous applause, whoops and congratulations from the audience, creating cherished memories for over 100 youth performers and their families.
“The Holiday Showcase truly highlighted the exuberance, talents and confidence of our Club youths of all ages,” said Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle CEO Becky Mazzanobile, who thanked Club staff and youths’ family members in the audience for their support. “This was a wonderful way to wrap up 2025 and show the care, love and support each of our children have as they demonstrate their artistry and explore their full potential.”
Performances, with Remington Clubhouse Director Yolanda Roberson as the emcee and children seated around the perimeter of the gymnasium floor, were offered by grade level. First grade students provided the finale, marching into the gymnasium as Santa’s elves with a banner proclaiming “We Wish You A Merry Christmas” as well as a wagon and two bins full of wrapped holiday gifts. One youngster, leading the troupe, yelled, “Merry Christmas!” to the crowd, eliciting massive applause. Also:
- Kindergartners swayed and sang along with “Jingle Bell Rock,” showing their moves in front of a festive Christmas tree.
- Second grade students gave a hearty rendition of “Oh, Santa” by Mariah Carey.
- Third graders provided a dance routine to “Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree,” spinning and waving their arms.
- Fourth graders did a fan dance, featuring rhythmic clapping and stomping, and finishing with handstands.
- Fifth graders recited an original holiday poem and ceremoniously bowed at the end.
- The middle schoolers’ rendition of “All I Want for Christmas Is You” featured a Rockettes-style kick line.
Erica Boateng, a 13-year-old Club member and student at Albert Leonard Middle School, was happy to be performing. “I was excited, but nervous too,” she said. Co-star Paige Mickens, who along with Boateng performed with Williams, practiced for two weeks. That preparation paid off. “I was completely calm in the moment,” she said, further comforted by siblings in the audience. “That made me more confident. My friends were there for me, too,” she said.
Dignitaries cheering on the performers included:
- Congressman George Latimer, representing the 16th District. He was impressed by the talent, warm holiday atmosphere and the performers’ enthusiasm. “The holiday season truly comes alive in the faces of children!” he said.
- City of New Rochelle Mayor Yadira Ramos-Herbert led the kids through a rousing “6-7” chant when offering warm holiday wishes before the performances. Afterward, she said, “We are lucky to have the Boys & Girls Club as a safe space, where kids can be kids and they can celebrate the holidays together.”
- Terry Clements, of the Westchester County Board of Legislators, is a former teacher deeply experienced with working with kids. “It was so well organized. They went through the program flawlessly,” she said. “The staff did a fine job. The kids enjoyed it and I had fun.”
For 95 years, Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle has been an integral part of the community, offering quality, achievement-driven programming encompassing academics, mental wellness, fitness, leadership and civics. Today, it is one of Westchester County’s largest nonprofits and a leader in youth development, serving over 10,000 youths annually at 12 school sites and two clubhouses. Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle’s impactful before-school, after-school, elective, and summer offerings empower members to excel in school, become good citizens, and lead healthy, productive lives while effectively bridging the gap between school and home. Learn more at BGCNR.org.