Just recently, I was casted as the lead in a musical. This was and is a big deal for me, as I have dreamt of the day for almost ten years. When I began rehearsals, I found out that I would not only have an amazing time portraying the role, but a great time getting to know the people who are in the show as well.
In 2010, I was casted in my first musical. I was eleven years old, and it was something that was a huge deal for me. I didn't have a lead, but I did have oodles of fun portraying one of the many of Dr. Seuss's storybook characters and bringing them to life.
I remember doing that show and looking up to the actors and actresses older than me. I remember being transfixed on their singing voices, acting quirks and dance talents that I was so motivated to become a better performer myself. Performing with those people was a big deal to me. I felt so honored when they took time to talk to me or even look at me. I was constantly talking about them with my parents. They were the coolest people ever.
Now here I am, six years later. I have the lead. Whenever I sing my songs, I see the glimmer of young eyes watching me, and I just think back to the days when those little eye were mine. Here, now in 2016, for this new group of kids, I get to be that role model.
It's bittersweet and a blessing that I have this opportunity. The kids that I work with are such exciting, energetic little humans. They constantly tell me that they know my lines and my solos and it reminds of when I used to practice all of the leads' songs, lines and choreography. I spent ten years doing it, which is what makes doing this show and performing this part all the more special.
I have an opportunity to show kids that a) life is all about you and your part or b) life is about serving others and the show doesn't rely on one part alone. (My goal is B, and I pray that prayer everyday). I try and encourage the kiddos that I'm with by being silly when the time is appropriate, talking with as many of them as I can during break, and listening to their fun stories. Honestly, I am having the time of my life. These kids are such sweethearts and I love each of them for their unique personalities.
I know that I have been granted this amazing gift by God to be a role model to my fellow cast mates. I know I'm not perfect, and I want the kids to know that. I want them to know that it's okay to be themselves and the stage is a safe place for those who are different to express themselves.
I wrote down this prayer in my prayer journal:
In 2010, I was casted in my first musical. I was eleven years old, and it was something that was a huge deal for me. I didn't have a lead, but I did have oodles of fun portraying one of the many of Dr. Seuss's storybook characters and bringing them to life.
I remember doing that show and looking up to the actors and actresses older than me. I remember being transfixed on their singing voices, acting quirks and dance talents that I was so motivated to become a better performer myself. Performing with those people was a big deal to me. I felt so honored when they took time to talk to me or even look at me. I was constantly talking about them with my parents. They were the coolest people ever.
Now here I am, six years later. I have the lead. Whenever I sing my songs, I see the glimmer of young eyes watching me, and I just think back to the days when those little eye were mine. Here, now in 2016, for this new group of kids, I get to be that role model.
It's bittersweet and a blessing that I have this opportunity. The kids that I work with are such exciting, energetic little humans. They constantly tell me that they know my lines and my solos and it reminds of when I used to practice all of the leads' songs, lines and choreography. I spent ten years doing it, which is what makes doing this show and performing this part all the more special.
I have an opportunity to show kids that a) life is all about you and your part or b) life is about serving others and the show doesn't rely on one part alone. (My goal is B, and I pray that prayer everyday). I try and encourage the kiddos that I'm with by being silly when the time is appropriate, talking with as many of them as I can during break, and listening to their fun stories. Honestly, I am having the time of my life. These kids are such sweethearts and I love each of them for their unique personalities.
I know that I have been granted this amazing gift by God to be a role model to my fellow cast mates. I know I'm not perfect, and I want the kids to know that. I want them to know that it's okay to be themselves and the stage is a safe place for those who are different to express themselves.
I wrote down this prayer in my prayer journal:
Father,
I pray for this show. I thank You for this amazing opportunity to serve You, to shine for You, and to bring people closer to You. I pray that this show can touch people's lives and hearts, about the way they treat people who are different then them.
I pray God, that You take away all arrogance, selfishness, pride, haughtiness, greed and ego. This show isn't about me. It is about something SO much more.
I pray for the cast. I pray that I may be a beacon of Your Truth to them, the crew and more. I pray that I take time to get to know my fellow cast mates by bringing The Church to them.
I ask this all in Your Name,
Amen.