Center Stage

My first opportunity to participate in a high school musical came in sixth grade when I was cast as Kurt in the high school production of "The Sound of Music." Afterward, I was hooked. Since then, I've acted in 12 shows and performed in many concerts for both the symphonic and jazz bands. I've been involved in numerous extracurricular activities, but none can compare to the exhilaration and triumph of performing with my friends in musicals, plays, concerts, jazz nights, or chapels. These activities, collectively referred to as the Performing Arts, have greatly enriched my experience at Timothy. Over the past seven years, three elements of Timothy’s Performing Arts program have had the most impact on me: camaraderie, leadership, and excellence.

From the first musical in which I acted at Timothy, the community that develops during the exhausting rehearsals and emotional performances has blessed and shaped me. Working with my fellow trumpet players to learn challenging music has fostered similar connections and new friendships. Through these creative outlets, I've met brothers and sisters in Christ who have encouraged me in my talents and faith, pushed me to mature and perform, and brought a smile to my face no matter my mood. I observed the examples set by talented and kind older students, who welcomed me even in sixth grade, and have enjoyed the opportunity to follow in their footsteps of leadership as a senior.

Before every show we perform at Timothy, one of the seniors in the cast gives a devotional and shares words of wisdom or encouragement to help us prepare for our performance. Those moments, when the actors, musicians, and crew members are all together, nervously excited to turn our hard work into action in front of an audience, have always been some of my favorites. I enjoyed hearing what the seniors of past years had to share, and I loved being one of those seniors who could talk about how God has shaped me through theater. However, this is just the beginning; all Performing Arts require student leadership every step of the way, whether it's reviewing choreography with fellow actors, giving advice on singing technique, or confidently playing difficult parts in band class so that your section can follow. These initiatives help ensure that the performances are of excellent quality.

Like many activities, the performing arts demand countless hours of time. Unlike other activities, there are few opportunities to showcase this work. We have three shows for the play, three band concerts, one event dedicated to the jazz band, and four shows for the musical. This fact, along with our commitment as Christians to do everything as unto the Lord, necessitates preparation and excellence. I have appreciated the balanced perspective of our directors in music and on stage; we participate in these activities to learn and enjoy, but also must commit to the effort it takes to perform to the best of our abilities in order to honor ourselves, our teammates, and our Lord. This attitude, which the performing arts seek to instill in each student, will serve us well throughout our lives, no matter the occasion.

I am so grateful for the ways in which Timothy’s performing arts have taught me, grown me, and introduced me to so many wonderful people. These experiences have been an integral part of how Timothy has shaped me into a more mature follower of Christ.