Karthik Nune stepped on stage unprepared for the reception he would receive.

Most of the… Karthik Nune stepped on stage unprepared for the reception he would receive.

Most of the audience members at the Pitt Program Council’s Student Talent Showcase leapt to their feet when Nune began performing a dance routine to Michael Jackson’s “The Way You Make Me Feel.” And most of the audience members didn’t sit down until he was finished.

The slim-built freshman appeared on stage in an open blue shirt, white socks, cuffed black slacks and loafers. And even those who remained in their seats joined in the howls and hollers at each pelvic thrust and crotch grab Nune performed in true Jackson style.

Seconds later, the room exploded with cheers when Nune imitated Jackson’s most famous move, the moonwalk. When the tribute was complete, Nune exited the stage to deafening applause from the audience.

“That was more than expected,” said the Johnstown, Pa., native. “It made me so calm.”

Acoustic guitars and high-pitched voices