Members of fraternities and sororities have been showcasing their spirit in the annual Greek Sing since 1968, but last night members of greek organizations had a brand new chance to display their talent at the Greek Sing 2003 Kickoff Party.

The doors opened around 9 p.m. and the crowd, expected to be between 200-300 people, quickly filled the small auditorium at Delta Upsilon (DU) fraternitty, 229 Locust Lane.

By the time the DJ started playing, a line, four people wide, formed out the door that nearly reached the street to see the sneak preview of Greek Sing 2003.

Since 1985, the proceeds of Greek Sing have been given to the Gayle Beyers Scholarship Fund, an endowed scholarship named for a woman recognized for her dedication to the greek system at Penn State.

Those performing in the event got excited as they saw the huge gathering.

Erica Orgiefsky (sophomore-elementary education) performed with her sorority and Delta Upsilon in their rendition of Mamma Mia.

"Even though DU only has seven pledges, we're still gonna kick ass," Orgiefsky said. "Mamma Mia is going to be awesome."

Those in charge of organizing the party were equally excited to see the crowd enjoying the performances and free food.

"My favorite thing is seeing people meet and become friends," said administrative assistant Sarah Pearce (junior-history).

Dani Williams, security and special events chair, was surprised by the great turnout.

"I've got to seriously take a picture of this," Williams said.

Marketing chair Irene McKenna (junior-geography) was visibly excited when the music came on and the crowd showed up.

"I think this is a great way for everyone in the greek community to get together," Mckenna said. "I didn't think this many people would show up."

Several local restaurants donated food to the party free of charge including Papa John's and Hooters, said overall chair Lyndsey Kriftner (junior-actuarial science). Kriftner emphasized that kickoff party is an "optional, for-fun, competitive" event that is "trying to start the spirit early."

The party was completely alcohol-free and the rule was enforced strictly.

"If anyone is caught they'll be disqualified from Greek Sing altogether," said Kriftner.

The overall committee used the kickoff party as a chance to see that the groups are progressing with their acts. All the groups involved in Greek Sing seem "on the ball," said spokeswoman Courtney Poillon (sophomore-marketing).

"Everyone's really working hard," Poillon said. "I think it's going to go really smoothly. I'm excited, really excited actually."

Chi Omega and Delta Sigma won the contest as the best preview to participate in the kickoff party.