I began my theatrical career as a young child. I remember plays from when I was six years old, being on stage was very exciting! As a twelve year-old, I did my first "real" musical, Bye Bye Birdie. I had several really great influences during that time, from the musical director who taught me how to project (speak and sing loud enough for the back rows to hear, without a microphone) to the technical director who showed me how to build flats. All of these lessons have stayed with me, through my 25 year career. Now, I find myself in a position where I can give back, to help future generations.
Olympic Heights Community High School in Boca Raton, FL recently sent out an email. In part, they said "... I am sure you are already aware of the rough economic times we are all facing and that it is, unfortunately, taking away from the advances of the school system. School funding has been cut drastically and it saddens me to say that the arts programs are suffering. As students, we try to make the best of it but we can’t do it without your help. I am proud to say that we have the talent to perform this year at the Florida State Thespian Festival but we lack the funds for set and costumes – a necessity of any tremendous production."
I have worked with teens before. Some of my favorite theater memories come from productions performed and staffed by kids. So I contacted the group, and offered my assistance - not with money, but with time. I believe in supporting the arts in schools. I feel very strongly that by empowering students to produce their own production, from scenery to performance, they will learn that they can accomplish anything. These kids don't need someone to swoop in and do it for them - or for someone to just give them everything they need. That rarely happens in life. I feel that giving them the tools to accomplish their own goals, with some experienced guidance, is the best thing that can be done for our youth. We will be building Neil Simon's Lost in Yonkers. When it is all said and done, everything from the lights to the scenery will have been done by these students. I look forward to seeing the end result, and then seeing how far these kids go! Stay tuned...