From the Desk of the Assistant Middle School Director/Theater and Choral Director for Middle School- October 11, 2019


Dear Parents,

It is certainly impressive when it can rain on cue with real water! This usually brings a well-deserved round of applause. 
 
However, to me, it is perhaps even more impressive--almost miraculous--that a 14 year old student is standing under that water, confidently dancing and singing. The audience can hear him because three other students are carefully monitoring the sound board. When his mic goes out because of the water, another student tech is in the wings ready to fix it. The audience can see him dance because a sixth grader is working a spotlight while another 8th grader controls the flow of the water from the light board. 
 
During intermission, a crew of about 15 middle school students run out with squeegees to remove all traces of the deluge that ended Act 1. Whatever the squeegees leave behind, they attack with paper towels, mops, and even, when needed, are known to scoot across, using themselves as human mops. 
 
All of this, indeed, the entire production of Singin’ in the Rain Jr., is run by three seventh graders, who are responsible for calling every light cue, sound effect, and set change. 
 
The commitment on stage is no less, as eighty-four students have spent months and months of time learning and practicing material, perfecting voices, and learning complex choreography taught by an eighth grader and two alumni. 
 
The fact that students are bright and capable is not a surprise. But to see these students living out Harding’s mission in such a consistent, remarkable way is something that never ceases to inspire me. I always wish the audience could see just how much a production is actually a reflection of Harding's unique commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for individual students to grow and develop. What we see onstage is only the tip of a spectacular iceberg as our students lead, follow, learn, and grow. 
 
 
Sincerely, 
 
Braden Bell 
Assistant Middle School Director/Theater and Choral Director for Middle School
 
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