This column appeared in the Tribune & Georgia newspaper on Wednesday (Feb. 8, 2006).
I have witnessed this event for more than 25 years, going all the way back to when it was held at Valdosta State University. The mission that year continues to be the mission still for the hundreds of volunteers across Georgia that sponsor the Georgia State Thespian Society, a chapter of Educational Theatre Association. Undertaking this annual Conference, these largely sane (by most standards) individuals could be seen as engaging in severe risk-taking behavior. But a fierce dedication drives these teachers, volunteers and parents to organize, fundraise and plan so they can collectively bring more than 2,000 students together in one place for a weekend dedicated to “doing theatre.” More than 20 students from Camden County High School were a part of this year’s Conference, held Feb. 3-5.
Each year, at the Georgia State Thespian Conference, attendees meet and learn from professionals in every phase of the business, from the technical to the stage, that provide learning and support for students’ passions. This year, students attended more than 50 workshops, including ones featuring magic tricks, African, jazz and tap dance, techniques of stage combat, special effects makeup, interpreting Shakespeare, set design, and proper exercises to promote breath control. These learning experiences were combined with a festival of One Act and full-length plays, including student performances of more than 12 shows, such as “Les Misérables,” “Beauty and the Beast,” “The Wiz,” and “Godspell,” In addition, students took part in the annual Individual Events competition in solo and duet acting and singing, as well as in technical theatre. At the State Conference each year, students audition for and earn thousands of dollars in scholarship money to colleges and universities across the country.
This all takes place in less than 48 hours, with an intensity and fervor that is legendary. Each year, when the Conference is over and the students are home, exhausted and delirious, and the adult sponsors and volunteers lay down for that well-deserved afternoon nap, I am moved by the power of the experience and by the sensational kids I witnessed. I am also left wanting to offer this caveat: Don’t judge our children by the actions of a few or by what you hear from those that don’t really know them. Judge them by their commitment to their passion for the arts and to each other.
A reminder about an interesting opportunity if you help with sound and lighting at a church, a civic group or a local performing group: Arts Camden and Crooked Rivers, Sisters Three is offering a one day lighting and sound workshop and seminar on Saturday (Feb. 18) from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the CCHS Auditorium. Technical staff from the CCHS Auditorium will conduct the workshop, which will include information about stage lighting and sound instruments and their operation. The cost is $20 payable at the door and lunch will be provided on site for $6 from 11:30 a.m. to noon. Call 729-7463 to make a reservation.
Opportunities for this week and upcoming weeks: the “elusive butterfly” guy, Gordon Lightfoot, Florida Theatre, 2.8, 8 p.m., for pickers, enjoy the Palatka Bluegrass Festival at The Rodeheavers Boys Ranch, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., 2.8-11; a great weekend for moviegoers with “Firewall,” “Curious George,” and “The Pink Panther” debuting 2.10 in local movie venues; travel back to Harlem’s high times with “Ain’t Misbehavin’” Ritz Theatre, 2.11, 7:30 p.m.; enjoy the fine fingering of The California Guitar Trio, Florida Theatre, 2.12, 8 p.m.
If you have ideas or events you want me to share with readers, send me a note at pkraack1@tds.net.
2.1.06
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