“I will honour Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year.”
-Charles Dickens, A Christmas Carol
What would the world look like if renowned author Charles Dickens decided to not use his gift of writing? Imagine a world where readers did not experience the transformation of the curmudgeonly Ebenezer Scrooge from miser with a heart of stone to one filled with generosity and compassion. Would the world be filled with more grinches and less Tiny Tims? More Bah, “Bah, humbug!” and less hope? One author created an enduring tale that has become synonymous with the Christmas spirit! But what if Mr. Dickens had chosen not to put pen to paper?
Everyone has unique talents and abilities that they possess and that can be used to serve others and contribute to their community! ASPI desires to be a space in their community where those talents and abilities can thrive and be shared! One way ASPI is fostering this is through building students’ confidence through their Kids Camp! ASPI hosted its first annual Audition Kids Camp on Sunday, August 17. You can read more about that incredible day on the blog: Mini Camp, Major Talent!.
When Bobby Buffington, director of the upcoming production A Ghost Tale for Mr. Dickens JR., first pitched the idea of the audition camp to the theater board, he knew that this small 5 hour camp would eventually grow into something much bigger! It would not only help build students’ confidence for auditions, which is an extremely vulnerable experience, you are literally stepping in front of a group of strangers, putting your talents on display, and asking them to judge you, but these audition skills would ultimately translate to many other areas of their lives.
After that first Kids Camp, one mom approached Bobby to share that she had been watching from the lobby for a few minutes and she witnessed her usually shy child being so expressive and outgoing. That newfound confidence is the goal! ASPI strives to provide a positive impact in helping youth experience theater!
That brings us to Dickens, JR. auditions! Almost 60% of the students who are in Dickens, JR. were at the kids camp! You could tell that a lot of the students who attended the camp were applying skills and strategies they learned. Specifically when it came to reading lines in character and which songs they chose to audition with. When rehearsals began, you could see the results of the improv sessions from kids camp. The students were quicker on their feet and more willing to try new things on stage.
Kids Camp not only provided a space for students to practice their skills, but it also an opportunity to be part of community! Not only part of a community with their peers, but also sharing their gifts with the surrounding community. You never know how your performance might inspire someone.
Give the gift of the Christmas spirit! Tickets are on sale now for A Ghost Tale for Mr. Dickens JR.! Performances will be December 4-7, and 11-14. For more information please visit https://abramsspotlightproductions.com/ or call the Box Office with any questions, 920-826-5852.