When decisions are made for you

Just found out that my kids' theatre troupe is shutting down. This saddens me greatly. I had pondered not doing classes this coming year, but couldn't imagine my kids life without Kelly Slusarick and her staff diligently teaching them the ins and outs of the theatre. So I had decided to make sure we made theatre part of our priorities this year. Unfortunately, that is not in the cards.

Kelly has been teaching Asher for six years and Evie for four years. Isaac had just begun her program this year and last with one of Kelly's staff and was enjoying it thoroughly. She has been a gigantic part of my children's lives nearly every week for the past six years. Some of them since birth! She saw me through my pregnancies with both Oz and Isaac. They have relished their time with Kelly. I have never had to make them to go to class, they were eager and ready to go every week. When classes were cancelled or were over for a semester, I dreaded telling them because of how sad they would be not to have their time with Kelly at drama class.

I would be remiss if I didn't mention the rest of Kelly's family as well. From Scott's dedication, his role as "The Gruffalo" which I will always remember and set building talent, to Sarah's exuberance for life, to Zoe's friendship to my kids. They are an amazing and multitalented family. My family has been lucky to have them in our lives.

My kids have all learned so much from Kelly's program, but I think Asher has benefitted the most. He has gone from being pretty scared to be on stage to belting out a solo from a broadway musical on stage for an audience with absolutely no shyness. He has come so far under her tutelage and encouragement. She has played a vital role in shaping him into the mature and wonderful young man he is today.

So Kelly, Kelly's family, and staff from Acting Up Children's Theatre(especially Elise Dukette) - thank you so much for not only accepting my kids for who they are, but embracing all their uniqueness quite thoroughly. Thank you for teaching, thank you for being there, and for being part of our lives for six years!

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