Oliver!

In June we decided to try something new and let the kids audition for Corbett Community Theater's Fall production of Oliver! the musical.  When the cast list was posted, were very excited that :

1. Grace would get to take the stage with her siblings for the first time.
2. Katherine would get to sing her heart out as Nancy.
3. J.J. would try his hand at a leading role and sing his very first solo.

 Wow, five months later (after MANY hours of rehearsing), Sovann and I sat in the audience as the proud parents of three shining stars amongst a really great cast of kids.  It was, indeed, a different experience than CYT - not necessarily better or worse, but it caused us to appreciate some old things while expanding our horizons with new challenges.

One of the greatest take-aways was the many new friendships formed.  The kids and I forged new relationships with the other 60-some cast and crew members, directors, and parents who helped bring this musical to life.  But there were a few old friends as well, and it was great to reconnect with them.

The kids all grew by leaps and bounds in their acting and singing abilities, both because of many hours of hard work and the patient and inspiring direction of Angel, Josh and Kathy (among others who helped choreograph and coach the musical numbers).  Everyone who helped gave as much as they demanded, and loved the kids while stretching them to their limits.


So here are some video clips.  Because of license restrictions, we could not video tape complete songs or actual performances.  These are all of dress rehearsals, so you will hear directors yelling instructions and many little glitches that were smoothed out by opening night.  Enjoy!