"This is going to be very hard for me, and I haven't done it yet, but I will do it anyway." This is what one of the youngest participants in this year's Rising Stars theater experience, Della (age six), said when asked what determination means to them. The theme for this year's events, presented by the Macomb Arts Center (the MAC), was "I Am Determined." This past Friday and Saturday, the spotlight was ablaze as all four plays took center stage at the Hainline Theatre at Western Illinois University, showcasing an incredible blend of determination and how it can expand past its dictionary definition, originality, bravery, skill, humor, and fervent vulnerability.
Each performance was a thrilling testament to the hard work these students poured into their craft, leaving the audience buzzing with admiration.
Whether it was learning to make new friends (The Case of the Missing Mushrooms), learning how to deal with change (The Show Must Go On), finding truce with an enemy (Ow, I Think I Broke My Wrist) or embracing the idea of exploring beyond their original expectations (Determination Station), these plays each highlighted what could be the beginning of the next generation of stars seen on our television sets, Hollywood blockbusters or on Broadway in New York. The cast displayed a remarkable passion that is not developed overnight, but was demonstrated effortlessly by this year's group.
What was most captivating for me was the confidence many of the students had on the stage, along with how many of them did not fret when exposing their funny bones. While I mentioned that many may envision a future in Hollywood, it doesn’t mean that some aren’t heading to New York to audition for Lorne Michaels and chase a spot on 'Saturday Night Live.' I can’t emphasize enough how much I enjoyed the humor displayed by most. It truly surpassed that of many adult comedians, to be honest.
To the esteemed leaders (Heidi Clemmens, Ethan Ivey, Breahna Lesemann and Kristel Wroblewski), the teen assistants (Jaydn Glaue, Kate Killian-Johnson, Dahlia Lauer, Vida Schmidt, Karsyn Trusley, Claire Wen, Julia Woell and Hannah Zhang), along with Tammy Killian, I express my sincere appreciation and extend a round of applause to all of you. Your invaluable support has empowered these students to explore their limitless potential without constraining their aspirations. Suffice to say, there's no weeping for the future because their minds are so bright, we older people need shades to see, feel and keep up with their luminous glow.
As students say farewell to summer and get ready for school, many are discovering the wonderful ways they can make a difference—not just for their teachers and friends on the playground, but for the whole community. With their positive spirit, they bring so much color and joy to our city!
The Rising Stars program is grateful to all who donated to Robbie Field's Memorial Fund to help families in need of financial assistance. Rising Stars is partially supported by local funds from the Two Rivers Arts Council, a regional arts organization.
