From my first time on the stage as a kid to directing shows at Camp Broadway, my journey has come full circle. Every summer at camp, I see myself in those eager young faces, ready to bring the magic of theater to life.
Finding Nemo Cast and Crew, Camp Broadway 2024
Life as a Camper
In my early years, theater camp was everything I looked forward to. Growing up low income, it was an amazing opportunity that I recognized and appreciated. I got very lucky with grandparents who always believed in me and encouraged my creativity.
I remember the first camp I went to so vividly. It was a full day, but it went by so fast—full of scene work, movement, games, and my favorite: IMPROV! I can still see how in awe the counselors were by my fierceness and unapologetic way of being true to myself while diving into the art of improv.
When it came time for the award ceremony, I felt cheated because I was getting NADA—until the very last award: the "TOP PERFORMER" award! I was shocked, bewildered, FLABBERGASTED even. That trophy sits on my desk to this day and reminds me of why I continue to fight for my dreams.
As we were leaving, the director literally jumped over metal folding chairs to let me know I had received a full scholarship to the "Big Kids" camp. I was ecstatic! We performed Once on This Island Junior, and I felt like a star of the show, performing right next to high school students—very few of us got that opportunity. That show is the reason I fell in love with performing.
Life as a Counselor
This is where I really started to see the impact we had on the kids. I saw how we could help shape their craft and encourage the authenticity they brought to each role. I was determined to be everybody’s favorite counselor while also being great at the job I was there to do.
During camp, I helped with characterization, building the set, and keeping other counselors on task—while also chatting with everybody all the time. It felt like home away from home. On show days, I helped with makeup, either keeping track of cues and entrances backstage or hyping the kids up to keep them engaged and excited.
I LOVED to lead the improv and theater games! That was always my favorite part of the day. I also really enjoyed helping the Drama Mamas with whatever they needed. (They ALWAYS have a task to complete!) Eventually, I became a lead counselor for a specific age group. We had several rising stars, superstars, and mega stars. This is where I learned how to communicate with directors and other counselor leads to make sure we all had a flow and were on task, where we needed to be.
Life as a Director
The past several years, I’ve been directing the shows alongside Mrs. Amanda, our co-director and choreographer. I’ve had other amazing co-directors, but these last few years with Mrs. Amanda have been magic. I’m so grateful I found a partner in crime. We hold each other up, keep each other afloat, and keep each other on task (she keeps me on task more so, lol). A dynamic duo for sure!
Directing has been an eye-opener and a truly fulfilling part of my soul I didn’t even know needed to be filled. Getting to inspire these children and watching their love for theater grow and prosper is so magical. I'm beyond grateful every year and proud of myself for getting better each year.
Full disclosure: the first year was hard because my mother had just passed away, so my emotions were high. But through the years, I’ve learned how to communicate with the kids in a way that is to the point, but also compassionate. Leading with compassion is the best way to communicate with kids who are sensitive about their craft.
It's crazy to think that we only have two weeks to put on an entire musical—three weeks if you count tech week when the kids aren't there. But somehow, we always manage to pull it off. This year, I introduced self-tapes, and it was the best idea I’ve had in a while. It’s where we are in the industry, and the kids did amazing with the little direction I gave them. I plan on giving a video tutorial next year, but it was exciting to be able to complete a read-through on the first day of camp, something we've never done before!
Highlights of Camp
✨ Working alongside Drama Mamas: Honestly, without them, we wouldn't be nearly as functional, complete, or successful. When in doubt, let a Drama Mama take the lead.
✨ Working with Sheila Bailey Lucas: She is my high school drama teacher and the camp coordinator. A star, to say the least. She shines wherever she goes and keeps you on your toes in the best way. Her eye is impeccable, and her love for the craft is undeniable.
✨ Working with my old high school classmates: Every year is like a little reunion, and it makes my heart so happy. I'm beyond grateful for the opportunity to reconnect and keep this passion alive.
✨ Watching these kids grow: Some of the campers have become counselors, and some have moved to New York or already started working in the industry! I’m so proud of them and grateful I got to be a part of that. Maybe a little happy I was a trendsetter for our small country town!
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