Alabama's Public Liberal Arts University

College Night

What is it?

Since 1919 College Night has redefined homecoming for one small liberal arts school in central   Alabama. Like all school homecoming celebrations, the University of Montevallo's tradition combines competition with a swell of pride carried by current students and distant alumni. However, the tradition stands unique among the myriad of homecoming games that exist, one that it is entirely intramural. 

The student body divides into the Purple side and the Gold side, UM's school colors. Indeed, an intense rivalry has evolved over the years. There's no rhyme or reason to selecting a side, except destiny and friendships. An elaborate rule system and governing council of professors guide participants through an early winter competition between the sides. Points are accumulated by winning various intramural sporting events and original musical productions.

The crowning star of the UM College Night tradition is the musical productions. Each side produces an original one act musical. Everything must be created by current students--scripts, music, lyrics, costumes, choreography, sets, and direction. The planning process usually begins upon election of the next year's leaders in the late spring. Student-written scripts and music are submitted and selected in the fall.

However, no actual production work can begin until the first day of the Spring semester in mid-January; each side tries to keep its preparations secret until homecoming week.

Astoundingly ,the  daunting  task of producing a quality music theater work is accomplished with a budget of $1600 per side. Juggling rehearsals and classes, each side rehearses until homecoming week, usually the second week of February.

Independent judges review the Saturday night shows, and finally show points are added to pre-production points, revealing either a Gold Victory or a Purple Victory.

Though at passing glance it can appear to be a short-lived event, the experience lasts a lifetime. College night has been described as the "crest on the wave of school spirit." Yet, it is so much more. The camaraderie necessary to produce a magnificent piece of art under such limited time and resources builds strong friendships that endure beyond graduation on Flower Hill. Students develop production skills that challenge their artistic enthusiasm in a way that the classroom cannot. Without a doubt, the University of Montevallo has a jewel to be envied by other schools, and it shines both Purple and Gold.

 

What is the Side Song?

Each side has an anthem that it sings at the
end of any formal athletic practice, rehearsal, or event.
Both the Purple and Gold Sides sing their song in a
circle while linking hands. However, the
Gold Side leaves an empty hole in their circle to indicate,
“There’s always room for one more Gold!”
while the Purple Side has a completed circle indicating,
“A united circle is a united side. Let the circle be unbroken!”

 

What is the College Night Mixer?

An event held during the Fall semester to introduce new students
to the College Night tradition. This is event is pivotal in the
recruiting process. Cabinet members are also announced
at the College Night Mixer.

 

What is "What's it Gonna Be?"

   This is a catch phrase that ends each side song and is
used to invoke enthusiasm among side members.
The appropriate response for the
Purple Side would be
“A PV!” (Purple Victory)
and for the Gold Side
“A GV!” (Gold Victory).

 

What is the College Night Committee?

A group of designated members of the faculty or staff that ensure Homecoming runs smoothly and that
each side plays within the rules. Faculty and staff are urged to remain neutral and not give
assistance to either side, especially those serving on the Committee. Side leaders,
Student Government President, and one other unbiased student are also
members of the College Night Committee

 

What is the sign?

Each side raises a small billboard in front of the
Student Union Building that gives a hint of what their
show will be about.

 

What is being Green?

An unofficial color designated for students who do not participate
in College Night activities.