Summer is in full swing here at Journey! There’s a bright and cheerful energy in the air, in step with the sunny skies. It all feels a bit like a dance number from Singin’ in the Rain. Camps are in session, fall classes are taking shape, and we’re full of momentum and gratitude as this season of growth unfolds.
The cast of Singin’ in the Rain has been rehearsing all summer and is eager to take the stage on opening night. Beka Hardt is directing this beloved musical, which delightfully captures the shift from silent films to the new-fangled “talkies” of the late 1920s. You’ll love watching the talented cast perform some of the best-loved comedy routines, dance numbers, and love songs ever written. Join us for an amazing show to be held at Heritage High School from July 25-August 2. Visit our show page for more details and to purchase tickets.
While it may feel like summer has just begun, fall is just around the corner – and so is class registration! Fall classes open soon, providing youth the opportunity to explore different aspects of theater arts, gain confidence, and develop valuable performance skills. Check our website later this month for an update on classes offered this fall and open registration – they fill up fast! We are offering Wednesday classes this year, to be held at Manor Church. This is an exciting opportunity and an exciting step forward as we begin to call Manor Church our long-term home.
This month, we’re thrilled to welcome two new staff members to the Journey team. Naomi Short, a new Show Coordinator, brings a passion for organization and theater magic to every rehearsal. Jason Foster, our new Tech Coordinator will keep things running smoothly. We’re so grateful to have them both on board! We invited them to be interviewed this month and they were happy to answer a few questions for us.
What’s your role at Journey Theater, and what do you enjoy most about it?
Naomi: I’m a new Show Coordinator with Journey Theater. This coming fall will be my first opportunity to work alongside the amazing artistic team on Footloose, The Musical. One of the most rewarding aspects of my role has been the opportunity to learn from a staff that leads with kindness, integrity, and consistent support.
Jason: I am the new Tech Coordinator for Journey Theater and I enjoy working with our amazing volunteers to make Journey shows look and sound professional.
What’s one skill or value you think kids gain from participating in Journey Theater?
Naomi: I have seen all three of my children gain more confidence and courage through their participation in classes and shows. The community and new friendships they have formed have also been a wonderful and valuable addition to our lives.
Jason: Kids gain confidence in their own abilities as they work through the process of auditioning, casting, rehearsing and performing.
What’s a hobby or interest you enjoy outside of work?
Naomi: My husband and I have quite a collection of board games that we love playing with our kids and any friends who are up for it.
Jason: I enjoy reading, watching movies and binging “Psych” with my family.
If you could have dinner with any fictional character, who would it be—and why?
Naomi: Okay, this is a difficult choice. I think I would very much enjoy having dinner in the Shire with Bilbo Baggins. Not only would his Hobbit home be so cozy and inviting, but I’m sure he would have an impressive spread of biscuits and cheeses ready. I’d happily munch away as he shares his adventures of dwarves and dragons.
Jason: I would like to have a meal with Han Solo. Growing up I always wanted to fly the Millennium Falcon through space at light speed. Maybe I could convince him to let me fly it with Cherie as my co-pilot.
Finish this sentence: “Being part of Journey Theater means…”
Naomi: “Being part of Journey Theater means…” not only growing in your talents, but also in your values, character, and relationship with Jesus.
Jason: “Being part of Journey means…” being part of a family that believes in the power of storytelling to change lives.
Thank you to all our supporters, dedicated volunteers, and families for making Journey Theater possible. We look forward to a new season as we further our mission to grow youth in character and purpose through musical theater. Follow us on Facebook for upcoming events and the latest news on our renovation project.