I have had the opportunity to volunteer some of my time to Angel Fountain Educational Endowment (AFEE) over the past four years. They provide a unique experience to the students and faculty of the GISD theater arts departments and I am amazed at the quality and professionalism of the "On Broadway" production. The interactions between the professional actors and the students provide these students something they could not get anywhere else. The dedication of the AFEE staff to the student performer and the educational process is wonderful to behold.
I have had the privilege of being selected to perform in The Angel Fountain Educational Endowment’s production of On Broadway for the last two years. Being a part of this experience has given more to me than I could ever ask for. On Broadway gave me my love of musical theatre, which I am now pursuing as a career at Sam Houston State University, and completely changed how I view performing. This show can truly change the lives of the students selected to perform in it. I wouldn’t be half the performer or person I am today without it. I first auditioned and was selected my junior year. I still wasn’t sure about performing or what I wanted to do in college. After participating in the show’s and master classes I immediately knew that this was what I wanted to do. Performing and working side by side with the extremely talented stars that come straight from Broadway is an experience that you cannot get anywhere else especially in high school. The master classes happen for a week before the show and are free and open to the public. While being in the actual show was life changing for me, these classes are what changed my performing. Being able to work with the stars that come down to perform is exhilarating. Children of all ages can attend and are treated as equals. No one student gets more time with the stars. Even though they happen for only a short time, they can still change not only these kid’s performances, but also give them a chance to meet actual stars.
Being one of the student performers is truly a thrilling experience. You get one on one time with the stars and learn what its like to be a professional performer. Spending time with these amazing people is something I will never forget. They are so kind and accepting and will tell you anything you want to know about the profession. I simply cannot relate this experience to any other on the planet. In conclusion, On Broadway can’t be compared to any other experience and has changed mine and other students lives for the better.