Neverland? Check it out, yes January in Atlanta!
Where is Neverland anyway? A troupe of amazing YMCA-arts kids from Boothbay, Maine will travel 1260 miles to the JTF mainstage to be a showcase group for Junior Theater Festival 2012. No doubt this imaginary location will come to life for all of us as they take the mainstage for Peter Pan JR. January 13-15. The Y-Arts are returning for their fourth consecutive year to JTF. Distance is isn’t an issue for this crew, this past year they became pen pals with a group from PS124 and the kids are very excited to meet them at the festival!
Take note of some great advice from this exciting group from northern New England and their Director Emily Moore!
Advice from Boothbay YMCA kids:
-"No matter what happens just know that you did your best, had fun, and enjoyed every moment of the trip. From the plane ride, to the performance, to the dance party, everything counts!" -Mackenzie Colby
-"Don't think that you can't talk to anyone outside of your group. Sit with different people and get to know members of other groups. Most importantly... make friends!" -Sophia Thayer
-"You're not at JTF to be the best theatre group there. You're there to show people what you can do and do the best you can, learn from other groups and do what you love: performing! There's nothing else you can do but that!" -Noelle Timberlake
-"When you're performing in front of the judges, don't worry about anything else but having fun by singing and performing your hearts out. Doing the things you love to do!" - Courtney Chaney
-"Remember that the judges are cheering for you! They want you to do well and have fun. Also, remember that the criticism they give you is meant to help you improve as a performer, not discourage you." -Kate Hilscher
Advice from Director, Emily Moore:
-"Make sure your kids understand how important it is to meet kids from the other performing groups. Every year I insist that each member of my group meet 3 new friends and introduce them to me. It turns it into a game and helps them with an ice-breaker: "So my crazy director, Emily, wants us to meet new people. Will you meet her with me?" Works every time!
-"Remember, the festival isn't about winning. Just being at the festival with your kids shows that you care about their theatre experience. Mistakes will happen but just smile and know that your kids are learning from them."
Thanks guys……break a leg! cr
