On Friday last, RCSI’s Caribbean African Society (CAS) presented ‘The Chocolate Factor’: this year’s variation of the ever popular Chocolate Ball. This has now become a fixture on the student events calendar and is always eagerly anticipated by both students and staff alike.

Over 300 students enjoyed an evening of music, chocolate, dance, chocolate and more chocolate! The format this year was somewhat different to previous years. Inspired by TV show The X Factor, the event showcased some of RCSI’s many talented students.

Simon Cowell, Dani Minogue, Cheryl Cole and Louis Walsh were sent home after the judges auditions and in their place, an expert judging panel comprising of Fearghal Divilly, (SU President), Sinead Cronin (Medicine) and Shahil Sood (Medicine).

Three large chocolate fountains ensured a plentiful supply of chocolate all night while music and dance performances entertained the huge crowd.

Commenting on the event, Corriena Brien, Student Services Manager, said: "Each year this show just gets better and better and if you have yet to experience it, keep an eye on next year’s calendar. A huge ‘well done’ to CAS, front and back of house organisers and the amazing talent that took to the stage and provided a superb night’s entertainment."

She went on to say, ‘Nothing was left to chance and the amount of detail that went into the show was amazing. Even the invitations to the event were given a special twist. They came in the form of a bar of chocolate with event details highlighted on the wrapper."

The event serves to raise money for worthy causes and in the case of the Chocolate Ball/Chocolate Factor, this charity is Aid Africa. Last year almost €1,500 was raised and this year the income is currently being counted. A final figure will be announced shortly.