As the lights dimmed, Yeager Recital Hall began to fill with performers dressed in variations of red and black. Once again, Elon Cares 2014 kicked off the show with songs preaching a message of unity, love and to not be afraid to be yourself. A solo guitarist started the show off with the ever popular “Here Comes the Sun.”

Each performer wore a red ribbon, a symbol of HIV/AIDS awareness. Elon Cares, held on January 18, supports Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, a nonprofit organization that raises money for AIDS awareness and provides support for those affected by HIV/AIDS.

The show shocked the audiences with staggering facts, such as the more than 25 million people that have been lost to AIDS worldwide. Together, the slideshow read, they hope to make this a thing of the past.

One performance that stood out was a rendition of “It’s Time” by Imagine Dragons. Three girls sang with passion that could be felt throughout the room. With every breath, the audience was taken on a journey. The words “I’m never changing who I am,” struck a chord in the support of the cause.

Lyrics heard on the radio every day found new meaning in this show. Each song had a message to share, all working in support of HIV/AIDS awareness.

Elon Cares wasn’t all seriousness. The crowd laughed as the yearly drag number began after intermission. Six-foot tall men stood on the stage in clothing that left little to the imagination, but it was a favorite of the night with spot-on comedy performed in a tasteful manner.

Another spotlight moment was the “Unwritten” and “Royals” medley. These songs were sung passionately by two men. They fed off one another’s energy to preach the message of living life to the fullest.

The show closed with the classic “Bridge Over Troubled Water” which could not have summed up all the messages of the night better. “I’m on your side when times get rough,” “I will comfort you” and “Your time has come to shine” were all preached and practiced.

Audience members participated in raffles and silent auctions for various items from Broadway, including signed posters, gift cards to local restaurants and other Broadway items such as mugs, hats and bags.  All money raised went towards Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS.

Elon Cares 2014, it was your time to shine.