BEDFORD— The Bedford North Lawrence Renaissance Club is set to host its annual “Mr. BNL” fundraiser on Friday, April 4, at 7 p.m. in the Performing Arts Center. Tickets for the event are $5, with attendees able to cast votes for the People’s Choice Award for $1 during intermission.
The long-running event, which has been held annually since 2005, except for a cancellation in 2020 due to COVID-19, showcases senior contestants representing different sports teams and clubs at BNL. The Renaissance Club organizes the competition to celebrate student academic achievements, encourage student involvement, and promote a positive school atmosphere.
The competition is divided into three segments. First, the Individual Costume portion sees contestants dress in attire representing their respective sports or clubs while performing a short routine. Next, the Fitness Routine features a group dance-type routine. Finally, in the Themewear category, contestants dress in themed outfits—this year’s theme is “World Tour”—and answer a question in a Miss America-style format.
Contestants are judged by former Mr. BNL winners, a tradition that connects the event’s history with its latest participants. Previous titleholders include Jordan Vice (2005), Jeremy Knight (2006), Seth Inman (2007), Ben Jones (2008), Zarod Meyers (2009), Brittin Kimmel (2010), Zakk Walls (2011), Clayton Orender (2012), Brenno Nascimento (2013), Morgan Cummings (2014), Mark Hudelson (2015), Michael Young (2016), Brandt Callahan (2017), Mason Spires (2018), Andrew Rohloff (2019), Reinyn Clute (2021), Kolton Parker (2022), Cole Baker (2023), and Noah Russell (2024).
Senior Vincent Knight, one of this year’s contestants, anticipates an entertaining evening. “People are going to get the most impressive, unimpressive show of their lives,” Knight said. “They are going to see myself and all of these fine people make fools of ourselves.” Representing the Cross Country team, Knight will perform what he describes as a “very horrible fitness routine” aimed at getting the crowd laughing.
Senior Carson Puckett, representing the Unified Flag Football Club, has taken a unique approach to his talent performance during the Individual Costume segment. “Eating dry cereal,” he said, promising an amusing act for the audience.
With a mix of humor, creativity, and school spirit, the Mr. BNL event remains a staple of BNL’s calendar, drawing strong community support each year. Proceeds from the fundraiser benefit the Renaissance Club’s efforts to recognize student achievements and foster school involvement.
