On the magical evening of Friday, May 23, Sport Club Português opened its doors to something truly special — a journey through time and space, bound for the heart of Porto. The lounge, completely sold out, brimmed with anticipation and excitement. The event, affectionately named “Noite Académica” (Academic Night), promised more than a dinner or concert — it promised emotion, memory, and soul.
The main course of the evening was served in every sense — on the plate and on the stage. To honor the Invicta city and the night’s distinguished guests, the iconic Francesinha à moda do Porto was served, masterfully prepared by guest chef Zeca from the restaurant No Pão. Each bite transported guests to the cozy taverns of Porto, wrapped in rich aromas and warm hospitality. The flavor was as memorable as the emotion in the air.
But the real feast was yet to come. At 10:00 PM, Jack Costa, President of the General Assembly of SCP, took the stage and, with visible emotion, shared the club’s deep connection to the Tuna Académica da Faculdade de Economia do Porto (TAFEP). He recalled that the last time the tuna performed in that very room was in March 2000 — exactly 25 years ago — when a new generation of Luso-American youth was blooming at the club. “These young men visiting us today,” said Jack, “weren’t even born yet when their tuna filled this space with joy and culture.”
And then, the moment arrived. Thirty-two Portuguese students, coming directly from the city of Porto, filled the room with their traditional black capes, guitars, tambourines, laughter, and powerful voices. TAFEP didn’t just put on a show — they delivered an experience. The applause was constant, the smiles unending, and for a few magical moments, everyone in that room became students again — in love with life, music, and culture.
The atmosphere was contagious — as if the very soul of Porto had landed in Newark for a few hours. The music echoed through hearts, blending nostalgia with joy, pride with connection. DJ Madeira kept the party alive after the show, but the students didn’t retreat backstage. On the contrary, they mingled with guests, danced, laughed, toasted, and made friends. The night carried on until sunrise — as all the best academic nights do.
The tuna members were visibly moved by the warmth and hospitality of the community. They expressed sincere gratitude, surprised by how they were welcomed — not merely as performers, but as sons returning home.
And that is exactly what Sport Club Português provided: a night when we were all children of Portugal, reunited through food, music, and memory. More than a dinner, more than a concert, it was a living celebration of Portuguese culture. A clear demonstration of SCP’s continued commitment to bringing the community unique, authentic, and unforgettable cultural experiences.
