Glee-cap: Nationals

After three years of disappointment, having their set lists stolen, and plenty of slushies to the face, the New Directions finally reigned supreme in “Nationals.”

 

It’s not hard to see why McKinley’s Glee Club finally won the top honor for show choirs.

 

“Edge of Glory,” though lacking Lady Gaga’s unique vocal abilities, served as the perfect opening number. Though it didn’t exactly fit with the Vintage theme of the competition, the Troubletones did an all-around excellent job. I really liked the softer choreography, as well as the splitting of the lyrics between Mercedes, Santana, Quinn and Tina.

 

Also, Quinn promised that she would dance at Nationals. Not only did she dance, but she danced beautifully. Although I’m still bitter about her accident, I am confident that it only made her stronger.

 

Rachel’s rendition of “It’s All Coming Back to Me Now” was, dare I say it, better than the original. I am unashamed to admit that I have had it on repeat since the episode ended.

 

While the song itself perfectly showcased Rachel’s amazing voice, there is something special about it that I just can’t define. It must be the Rachel Berry star quality that I’ve come to know and love over three seasons.

 

“Paradise by the Dashboard Light” is the most choreographically complex number the New Directions has ever attempted. Even more, the execution was practically flawless. While the dance numbers are usually reserved for Brittany and Mike, the whole club joined in to perform the best competition number in three seasons. Finn’s voice has never sounded better, and the addition of Kurt, Blaine, and others made the song unforgettable.

 

Even better, Carmen Tibideaux had perfect timing for her entrance during Rachel’s solo.

 

While I’m pretty sure “Paradise by the Dashboard Light” won her over, I loved Jessie St. James’ speech. Although he and Rachel had a troubled relationship, his words were touching, and I’m so glad he still believes in her so much. I hope that things work out for him one day as well.

 

Vocal Adrenaline also had two incredible performances. Unique’s “Starships” had better vocals than the original, but lacked a certain quality that is found only in a Nicki Minaj performance. But I loved the choreography and the costumes.

 

I didn’t really care for “Pinball Wizard,” though. While the number itself was grand, it fell flat in comparison to the other spectacular performances in the competition.

 

That being said, it came as no surprise that the New Directions finally received their

National Championship. I absolutely loved the “Tongue Tied” montage. After waiting so long for them to win, the acceptance and congratulations from their classmates felt so deserved. It’s hard to believe that what started out as a group of five misfits blossomed into the best show choir in the United States. I am so proud of them.

 

I’m also really proud of Mr. Schuester. His passion for the Glee club was extremely evident in this episode. I enjoyed his speech in the scene where all the members were fighting with each other because of their determination to win. It reminded me why I still love watching Glee every week.

 

Likewise, I love that the school named Mr. Schue teacher of the year. Though I don’t always agree with some of the things he has said or done, Schue and I have one very important thing in common: we both never stopped believing that the New Directions could win. “We Are the Champions” served as the perfect tribute to the uphill battle that the Glee Club finally completed. It was a pleasure to get to watch every step of the path to a National Championship.

 

See you next week to say “Goodbye” to the William McKinley High School graduating

class of 2012!