After prepping for this moment with rehearsal after rehearsal, the moment finally came for Pacifica’s show choir to display their skills outside of California. For the first time ever, the 2026 Fame Nationals weren’t just a distant dream, but a reality for Pacifica’s Encore. Taking place in Branson, Missouri, this event proved to be an incredible experience for all involved and was well worth the 3:00 AM wake-up on April 9th, the day they traveled. After a whole season of record-breaking performances, this group of incredibly talented individuals now finds itself competing at the top level, representing Pacifia’s community with pride.
Pacifica’s Encore worked incredibly hard for this moment, and their transition to national contenders didn’t happen overnight. Moments before the event, the atmosphere was a mix of focused discipline, adrenaline, and anticipation as they realized they were about to make history for their school. For the seniors, this trip carried an extra-heavy emotional weight, marking the final time they will take the stage with their teammates. One senior, Mia Ward, shared the sentiment of the entire ensemble during the final days of prep: “When prepping for the nationals trip, I felt so lucky and excited because Pacifica’s encore has never been out of state. I can’t wait to perform our set one last time as a senior. We’re going to have a great trip, and I know everyone will push themselves so hard and perform their best at this competition.” Furthermore, looking back on the trip, Rory Parrott explains, “I think it was a great experience for our last year. Freshman year, I never would have imagined that we would be doing something like that, so it
was something super special for us.” The drive to succeed goes beyond just wanting to win a trophy; it’s about making the most of all the memories and hard work that led up to this moment, surrounded by close friends and supporters.
Choir ended up being the second runner-up, a huge accomplishment for Pacifica. The glory didn’t stop there for the team as a whole, and Rory further describes, “We also won the most professional award, which I think is very important for Pacifica. And, we won the most original music selection, which is really cool.” Without a doubt, these talented students have set a new standard of excellence for every performer following in their footsteps. As a more personal achievement, Christiana Famhy, a four-year Encore member, won the best female soloist award! When asked about such an accomplishment, she notes, “I was ecstatic, honestly. I joined Encore about four years ago, trying to give myself some publicity and get out there, and so that moment brought the whole experience together for me. It’s a portrayal of all my hard work over the years, and that’s just shown me how much I’ve grown as both a performer and as a person.” Taking the stage in Missouri showed Pacifica Encore’s talent and hard work, while creating a lasting legacy and proving their place on a national stage.
As Encore wrapped up their nationals experience and the seniors took their final bows on stage, emotions were running high. While the 2026 National Championship Finals mark the end of an era for these seniors, it also signals a new beginning for Pacifica. Because of this group’s dedication and heart, they have created a lasting legacy. Congratulations to Encore on such a historic season!
