Most Journey stories start with the line “I took my first Journey class when I was seven.” However, I started when I was sixteen in early 2023. I had been involved in theater since I was eleven with various theater companies. I got to the point where I realized I wanted something more. I had heard about Journey and decided to check it out. Originally I was just planning on doing a class during the winter session but on a whim I auditioned with just two days to learn my audition song. I was cast in Bye, Bye, Birdie as Harvey Johnson and the Mayor. It was an amazing experience and I have been doing shows with Journey ever since.
I have been in so many fun classes and shows where I have learned so much. Where else would I have been able to beat up my friends in a Stage Combat class and then another day be singing Les Miserables with them. The amount of unique experiences I have had is crazy. I have gotten to run around stage in a fur suit and then had 90 seconds to change from a lion to a farmhand (including having all my make-up removed). I have made so many friends that I know are going to be lifelong friends and they have been with me through thick and thin these past months. I definitely would not be where I am without those friends and teachers who have supported me all because I decided to squeak out that Disney song in just two days.
Everything I have learned came together and helped me earn a theater scholarship to Corban University which I will be involved in along with my major: Criminal Justice. I plan on continuing being involved with the Journey Community by performing in summer shows and volunteering when I can. I want to thank all of my teachers, directors, and other instructors for all you have taught me.
“The true courage is in facing danger when you are afraid, and that kind of courage you have in plenty.”-The Wonderful Wizard of Oz