Tara’s Takes
One of the best parts of summer is the never ending activities for the kids. Yes, there are sports camps galore. There is summer league for every sport there is. There are also a multitude of other activities to let our kids learn new things, try new skills or expand on things they already enjoy.
The library has summer reading programs. Tracy Community Education has a wide variety of programs, many I wish were for us adults because they sound awesome.
It’s not just Tracy. Communities all around us offer fantastic opportunities for our kids to keep them busy, engaged and off screens. Three years ago when Natalie said she wanted to try out for the Laura Ingalls Wilder pageant, I hesitated for a bit. It was a huge commitment but I also knew how much she loved her time in the Missoula Children’s Theatre at Holy Redeemer School. It was a decision I will never regret.
Natalie is now in her third year of the pageant. Every year has brought a new role, new responsibilities, new friends and a deeper appreciation of the arts and all that goes into the production. It’s challenged her in new ways as well as built her confidence every year.
This year, to add to the fun, she is participating in the SMSU Children’s Theatre program. This intense two-week program started last Monday. The kids met the staff, got scripts and auditioned all Monday morning. They meet every weekday to rehearse, learn lines, songs, choreography, blocking and more. Rehearsal runs from 8 a.m.12 p.m. each day.
It culminates this Friday when they perform three shows in one day — 9:30 a.m., 11 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. Based on the times, the show won’t be long. But anytime a director, costume manager, choreographer, pianist and more can corral 60-plus kids and put together a show in less than two weeks, it’s amazing.
The biggest thing for me is trying something new. It’s a chance to work with different kids and to learn from a different director. Next year, she can be part of the high school theatre workshop. Just the thought of her in high school in a year gives me a panic attack. But every year they grow and more opportunities open up for them.
So this summer, get the kids out of the house. Explore all the unique programs that are available. Visit the parks and the library. Hang out at the pool. Soak in all the experiences you can before these carefree days are gone.
And if you’re not busy Friday, come visit Treasure Island at the
SMSU Theatre.
