The Kennedy Political Union began the year with one of the most successful Welcome Week presentations of the Capitol Steps in recent years, drawing over 1,000 students.
KPU Director Taylor Robinson said she was pleased with the event's success.
"[It was] nice to kick off with a well-attended event and an energetic audience," she said.
Rain initially threatened to move the event indoors to Bender Arena, but Robinson decided to keep it outdoors despite a light drizzle.
Student Activities Director Karen Gerlach said an estimated 1,200 students filled the Woods-Brown Amphitheater to see the annual presentation of the political satire troupe.
Elaine Schleiffer, a freshman in the College of Arts and Sciences, said she liked the Capitol Steps mostly for their "good, intelligent humor and a very enjoyable show."
"I hope they return to campus, because I'd love to see them perform again," Schleiffer said.
According to the group's Web site, the Capitol Steps is comprised of many former Hill staffers and began 25 years ago at a Senate Christmas party. The Capitol Steps have recorded 26 albums and perform weekly at the Ronald Reagan Building.
In a statement by Student Government Chief of Staff Kristian Hoystradt, the group included new material in this year's presentation. New students were introduced to D.C.'s Metro system with "In the Metro," while the entire audience enjoyed the additions of "FEMA" and "Spring Time for Liberals."
SG President Ashley Mushnick was impressed by the event's attendance and overall success.
"The event was high quality, and the turnout was huge," Mushnick said. "This makes me confident we're headed into an amazing year for KPU and the Student Government."
Last year's KPU Director, School of Public Affairs senior Genevieve Frye, also enjoyed the performance.
"The Capitol Steps performance has really become a celebrated AU tradition, and it's a great way to not only kick off the KPU Lecture Series, but it's a great way to kick off the year," Frye said. "They're a hoot-and-a-half; they always are"
