Supporting your young performers -- it's more than just you!

I'm a cheerleader, a financier, a chauffeur, a teacher, an audience... I'm the parent of performers. You are too, all of those, I'm sure! And I'm happy to do it. I enjoy the results, I love hearing the singing around the house, I even (and don't tell Greg) sort of get a kick out of the drums.

And I sincerely appreciate the other supporters my performers -- and yours -- have. The teachers they have had have all been terrific, encouraging people (Ben, Kristina, Matt, Chris - hope you're all reading this!). I'm grateful for the opportunities they've provided to all of the kids in their programs, from setting up extra concert opportunities, planning Broadway in Chicago nights, finding outside experts to do workshops and clinics.

This weekend is one of those excellent opportunities -- it's Theatre Fest, held yearly, for Illinois drama students, and this year it's at Illinois State University. High school drama students from around Illinois will have the chance to see performances by other high school students, attend workshops, and have the opportunity to audition for college program reps. The big news for our high school this year is that our wonderful director, Ben Stoner, was selected to direct the All-State show (Almost, Maine), which features the talents of outstanding students from all over the state. I wish we all had the chance to see this! (And I want pictures from Theatre Fest!)

So, you parent cheerleaders, give a cheer to the teachers and coaches that also work with your performer. While we, as parents, are (hopefully, because I know there are kids out there who don't have parental support) the first and best supporters, our kids have a better chance of success and enjoyment if they have lots of excellent support outside of the home as well. Thank you to all of them!