My Best?...Your Best?...Our Best?

I forgot to post this last week haha!

All of us have something sometimes that keeps us from being or doing our best. There are a million and one obstacles when it comes to things getting in our way, no matter what we are trying to do, in any and every aspect of life. But one hindrance that I can be sure we all have in common is something that if we dig deep enough (or in some cases not deep at all) we can pinpoint as the actual source of more than half of these issues...can anyone guess what it is?....Ourselves. 

We are our biggest challenge because we are the only ones that can stand in our way. No one can force us to reach our full potential and no one can force us not to. It has to be a decision we make every day. 

In my experience alot of the reason we can't get past ourselves is fear. More directly, fear of failing. Like the line from "Dancing Through Life" from Wicked..."Those who don't try never look foolish..." I have always had that tendency, to think that as long as I only try a little bit I won't be embarrassed when I'm not as good as the next person. But having that philosophy means that we never know if we are actually good at anything cuz we never got our feet wet when it was time to test the waters. Now that's a very straightforward example, but many more roadblocks are not so prominent. We disguise them with excuses from every page in the book. But we have to look for the source of them and fix it from there. Nobody wants to fail but sometimes its easier than succeeding. But we have to remember and accept that  it's not easy and it won't happen with the flick of a switch; but the ability is in all of us. 

We fight the fight. 

We win or lose. 

We make the choice.

Good...Evil...

So there is no intro to my blog this week I'm just gonna start right off the bat with....good and evil. More specifically...is the absence of good evil? Is the absence of evil good?

I think that the absence of good is almost always evil, and the absence of evil is almost never good.

Basically, when there is no good or evil it is neutral and neutrality breeds evil. Evil (or the Devil) is always actively seeking somewhere, someone, something to latch onto and make his own. We, as humans, are very easily corrupted...so we are easy targets. When we have no good (God) to shield us we are in danger of falling into the Devil's trap.  Especially in our world today. There are so many things going on that I never could have imagined happening, and we need the presence of good more than ever. As human beings, we naturally want and need something to hold on to and believe in, if that thing is neutral, it then becomes an open invitation for the Devil to insert himself into our lives. If we don't have the armour of God with which to fight, then we do not have any chance of winning the fight. We need good.

This is one of the very reasons we wanted to create our own theatre company. The arts in general is mostly a neutral environment. People really like to say they are artists for art's sake...or because it is their passion and it's what they love and they do it for their own self satisfaction and the entertainment of their audience. Sure, this is all a part of why we do what we do, too....but it can't be the whole purpose. I mean there are always the people who talk about God and thank Him and all but in my experience with too many people, it is more of a "for show" type thing than the real deal. Many of those same people will do immoral or inappropriate things in the name of 'theatre.' And once it's in the name of 'theatre' or 'art' it becomes more about ourselves and less about God. Selfishness is a vice that is too easily fallen into. As artists, we have to be so careful about how we tell the story and if we are compromising any of our actor's morality. We have to be sure that our purpose remains pure, to spread Gods's Light and to show His glory!

"Things that stop you dreaming"

     If you are of flesh and blood; if the gears of a mind turn within you, shifting from moment to moment; if a heart beats inside you; if you are human... then you've had a dream. From the wisps of a child aspirng to be the very picture of goodness and courage as a superhero, or thirsting for the beauty and responsibility of being looked up to and loved by so many as a princess, to the dreams of having a name and changing the world by becoming the next great inventor or scientist of our time, to the wild fantasies that are not quite impossible like being a rockstar or an astronaut, to the heartfelt wants fueled by love such as wanting to build a better future for your children or traveling the world as a missionary, all the way down to the hopeful daydream of Bobby asking you to the dance or simply wild salmon for dinner. 
     There is no way to deny it, we have all had a dream. And the beautiful thing is, as with most personal experiences, there is no way to quantify a dream. We are born with the full capacity to dream. It is true that a child who dreams of a new toy for Christmas can want it just as badly as a person who's devoted twelve years to finding a cure wants the answer. And what does that mean? That that emotion exists in us for a purpose, we are not meant to stifle them or brush them off, leaving them behind in a dusty corner of our heart. 
     Some of us have a childhood dream which morphs into its "real life" equivalent because after all the avenue seen in our heads is just a means to fulfilling the deeper need of our beings. Like maybe our little superhero from earlier now sees himself displaying his leadership and strength as a professional athlete. Many of us change our dreams every day, but the thing is they are all entangled in one massive and masterfully weaved web. They are all connected. Connected by the root of all dreams: love. Because when all is said and done no one really "dreams" of wealth in the material sense. Sure some people think that's what will make them happy and some people fall prey to the vicious cycle of money and power, but underneath even the greediest even the most misguided of characters you'll uncover a heart that wants love. All our different passions and talents are instruments to in one way or another show love, give love, get love. That is why the most happy and fulfilled people are most often those who devote their lives to the service of others. So in a way, every time a person gives up on a dream a little bit of faith, a little bit of hope, and a little bit of love die. And who can afford that in this world? We all watch far too many dreams die every day, a few right when kids start to grow up too fast, a few when it comes time to be "realistic," a few when you get caught up in the politically correct "way," and the rest when you give up altogether on becoming who you once thought you could be. All the while being bombarded with images and messages of how you should be who you are as long as who you are fits within the criteria. 
     So yes, it is true that sticking to your dream when the going gets tough and it starts being attacked and torn down is not easy. It means deciding what it's worth, it means making sacrifice after sacrifice, it means taking the hits day in and day out, it means sticking your neck out on a daily basis, it means giving up on the world's "dream" for you, it means making some people very jealous and angry, it means never sleeping as much as you need to. It also means being proud of who you are, it means emboldening others to believe in something good, it means learning to love where you are in your journey and trusting that you're on the right path, it means truly understanding that "normal is an illusion," it means letting go of worry and doubt and stereotypes and gossip and and mockery and prejudice and ridicule and embarrassment and fear, it means knowing that you may fail one hundred times before the smallest success and being willing to risk it anyway, it means laughing more and loving more and hoping and praying, it means being able to see each tomorrow as better than today, it means doing it all for something greater. For as Mother Theresa said in one of my favorite quotes: "It was never between you and them anyway." 

     I'll leave you with this last thing. Give this song a listen. Really listen. Ever since I first heard it I regarded it as one of the saddest songs ever written. Listen and promise yourself that that'll never be you. If you can listen to this song and internalize it without getting the slightest bit choked up or misty eyed, then I think you, along with too many others, have forgotten what t is to dream. And that, my friend, is the saddest story of all.

Greetings From Cali!!!

Hello all! So update...I am actually in California right now helping my friend. She is in law school at Chapman university and she is wheelchair bound. She has MD so I am here being her aid for two weeks.
We have known each other since we were kids; we met because we both sang for Dream Kids, which was a group that raised money for the Dream Come True foundation, and we have been close friends ever since!
Being one of her aids is a more recent thing though. She asked me about doing it a couple months ago during an internship she was working in DC for the summer. She was having a real issue finding people for three days out of every week so I was happy to help. Since this is her first year of law school she asked me to come while she got other aids set up and to train a couple. I was a little apprehensive when she asked because I left the week Addams Family rehearsals are starting. I don't like missing boot camp and everything but I figured I could probably get away with going before things get too too hectic. And she is one of my best friends so I didn't want to pass up the opportunity to spend time with her and care for her. I also didn't want to leave her stranded in California without help! That would make me a very poor friend indeed!
 Taryn and Teara are going to have alot to handle while I'm gone because Jewel and Jorne are pretty indisposed since football started:/ But they said they didn't mind so off to California I went.
I have been here since Saturday and I'm staying till September 12th. The best thing so far is that it is HOT! I love summer weather and I know it will definitely be Fall when I get back home so I am really hoping I can get a little tan in before I leave Haha😉

Tornado Warning!

Here is my email and rehearsal speech from our 5th to last Hairspray rehearsal!!!! Enjoy!!!!




This show can be more than we have dreamed. I am so proud of each of you. Here is the full text from tonight, get your sleep fam, you are gonna need it!

     "The final journey began yesterday! How about the first full run? How about the 2nd day of tech week? Man this is something special.

You are all the strong, the committed, the humble, and the proud. We lost many cast members and that is ok,this was not for them, we gained some family too though. TROY, ETHAN,TONY lets hear it for them.

These are the nights we decide our own legacy. I believe you can all be great, I know -- can be great. Now it is time for you to believe it, and treat every moment as if it defines who you are. We etch our name in sweat, we etch it in tears, and in smiles. Integrity, honesty, what does your name mean. Who are you? It is in the footprints of giants we decide that. When we are put in a situation where it is easy to be selfish, to give up, to pity ourselves, or to break our word those are the moments that make us who we are, who are you?

It is hard to care , it is hard to love, a selfless love, but it is the greatest gift on earth, it is why we are here. We have a problem today with being vulnerable everyone is shelled up, we are afraid to show people who we are. Every day I heard and saw be yourself in school and tv, I saw the posters, but as I did every responsibility and foundation which creates that person was taken away from me. I few do not take our opportunities to do what is right we will never live to the full potential of our lives, there is a plan for you greater than your dreams.

"I don't make bonds, I'm afraid they will break." We don't invest, we try to look out for #1 because it seems like if I don't, who will? I can count on one thing in life and that is death! Easy and dangerous way to think, stripping us of our value. You are more, make it a mission to connect with people, you may be the ONLY one who does, when they spit in your face, lets open more, when we are betrayed let us show loyalty, when we are wronged let us show right. That doesn't mean we ever disrespect ourselves but instead respect ourselves enough to elevate above the base, the scrum, be proud enough...to be humble. It is hard but the moments when you see a smile spread across a face you put there it's all worth it. We need innovators and leaders, believers and fighters. let us be the difference. We will be ridiculed for it but that is the nature of this world. We can find solace in Someone greater, if we take the leap, to fight for it.

Thank you all for being a part of this cast, parents siblings and everyone who has contributed, now it is time unleash! - Jewel (your hype director)"

Tech Schedule: Wednesday/ move in 10-6 Zoellner

rehearsal 4-10 Comfort Suites

Thursday/ build 10-6 Zoellner

(tbd) rehearsal 4-10 Comfort Suites

4th of July break/ build

Monday and Tuesday we are in Zoellner from 8am to 11pm, there is a possibility of rehearsing in the morning. For those who do work, we have to see where we are after the next two rehearsals to know exactly what we will need. The latest call time probable on our 2 dress runs is 4pm, please be ready to come in earlier.

60s hair and makeup

Hello beautiful people:) I know it's been a while and there are so many important topics to cover but.... I'm not going to cover any of those right now hehehe because I've been awake for far too many hours to delve deeply into anything that requires serious focus and thought. Instead I'm going to show you a glimpse of why I've been sleepless in Palmer township. As you well know we are producing Hairspray in just a few short weeks so the time has come for endless hours of sewing, (which I'll post some sneak peak pics of next week), and also something that's near and dear to the heart of this show... Hair! So yesterday I practiced some 60s hair and makeup on some of my girls. It was the first time I've ever done this era so please don't judge too hard, I'll get better as I practice :D Here are some exames of what I tried! And yes I used a few tons of hairspray. Good night everyone:)

P.S. please excuse my 3rd grade level of writing this week. I tried. Ok not too hard but... Kind of. No I tried, I did try. A little bit. Ok bed time.  

Hairspray!!

     Well here we are, eighteen days away from opening hairspray. The set is coming along very well actually. We are about 58% done with it and its looking really pretty amazing if I may say so myself. So that is a big weight off of my shoulder, I'm thinking moving into our venue is going to be a breeze. That's when  I run into the problem of counting my chickens before they hatch. But regardless I am happy with were we are.
     As far as the cast goes, well let me just say we have a good show coming your way. The cast we have is super talented and the best part is they never stop working. But if they thought it has been  hard up till now they have another thing coming. theses next eighteen days are going to be the hardest of the show. Thing is, if they keep working theses next few days we can really make thing the best show we have ever had. And with the super powerful message of the show we have a chance to touch a lot of lives with our performance. There is a lot of darkness in  our world and too many people just standing by and letting it consume them. I want to be the difference, I want to be  a bright light that no darkness can overtake. That is my goal with show you can join that mission and join the light that this dark world needs. Or you can stand by and meld into the darkness just like everybody else. Be you make a difference for good and know there is only one judging eye that matters  and that is the one from above.

Do It Anyway

I have posted this before but it is just my favorite in times when I'm down or feel like as much good as I try to do my own flaws cannot be overcome and there is just too much darkness to make a difference. This picks me up right away, granting a certain calm. I pray this touches you tonight.

I'M BACK!!!!

Well... it's been quite a while since I've blogged. I've been so consumed with our shows that we have been doing I've put this on the back burner. I didn't mean to though, I promise! haha

Anyway... so to give you a little update.. we are in full swing of our production of HAIRSPRAY! I am so excited for everyone to see this production!!!! We have an AMAZING cast and an AMAZING crew and we are at a PROFESSIONAL venue!!!! I think that everyone should see this show. You will be amazed by the amount of talent on that stage. We have a cast of hard-working, dedicated, Broadway-level, beautiful actors and actress that will or already have made a name for themselves in the Lehigh Valley and beyond. I am so proud of each and every one of our 60+ person cast! You will not be disappointed!!!

So as I sit here and type this blog, thinking about all of the things I have to do from sewing costumes to hardcore advertising, to hanging up posters, to rehearsing like crazy, I also can't help but think about what a blessing it's been to work with every single person in this cast. We have all made life-long friends and have created a bond that won't soon be broken. Everyone brings something special and unique to this cast that could never be replaced.

I just wanted to give you all an update of what was going on. Next week I'll have something a little longer and something a little different. It's good to be back!


-Taryn

Hairspray Press Release: Challenge

Here is our press release, tell us what you think! I know it is long but we felt it all needed to be said.





Sing for America Presents HAIRSPRAY!

Sing for America, an organization striving to bring Light and Truth to entertainment while raising funds for military families, is presenting their 10^th production: HAIRSPRAY! SFA will present this fun-loving, free-wheeling, high-energy Broadway production which addresses our Civil rights upheaval of the sixties; the prejudice and struggle so real to our history. These old scars are being opened all around us today and this show seeks to heal those wounds. Uniquely cast colorblind we will reveal a world on stage where we see people as people and not labels, so we can live that truth when the lights aren't on and the curtain is closed. Featuring leads with professional credits and a 60+ cast including some of the most talented actors and students in our area, we are confident and proud to present this as the most ethnically, culturally, socioeconomically eclectic cast to ever take the stage in the Lehigh Valley. This cast has united as one to challenge you to look beyond color for two and a half hours and live beyond color past the applause. Will you stand up?

PROFESSIONAL CAST INCLUDES:

Motormouth MaybelleKiyaan Cox-Jones, Masters in Fine Arts from Howard University,  Corny Collins
Christopher Ryland, Masters in Shakespearean Theatre from the University of Houston

Tracy TurnbladZinnia Santiago, Freddy nominee recipient 
Jadyn Lynah, Debut performance
Edna TurnbladBruce Gilbert, 20 yrs industry experience
Wilbur Turnblad
Todd Carpien, Over 50 industry credits to his name

     

Amber Vontussel

Juanita Shockley, Freddy Award Winner                           

Link Larken

Victor Abreu, LVPA Graduate

Kemuel Vicente, Freddy Award WinnerSeaweed Stubs 
Juan Padilla, Associates degree in TheatrePenny Pingleton
Tasia Gilbert, Co-founder of SFAP and 15 years of professional experience including direction, choreography and design          

                                                                                                                                                               

Showdates: July 9^th and 10th – 10:00AM

                     July 8^th - 11^th – 7:30PM

                     July 11^th and 12^th – 2:00PM

Where:        Zoellner Arts Center

                     420 E Packer Ave

                     Bethlehem, Pa 18015

Tickets:       $18/Adults

                     $12/Students and Seniors

                     $9/ Children under 6

610-417-2189

www.SingforAmerica.com

Sing for America Presents exists to bring light to the world through the arts. They strive to compel all people to reach for the stars, to bring quality enriching entertainment and arts education to families at a price they can afford, to unite our community under love of God, country, and fellow man. Through serving those in need, cast members and audiences will truly learn the importance of working for something greater than self, and through experiencing a colorblind world on stage, they will live it off stage, spreading that way of life throughout the world.

Beauty

You were made beautiful, who you are in your natural state is more than you can dream. No physical or material change or object can perfect you, its too late! You were made for a purpose and that purpose is real Love. Remember this always, it is still so hard to live, perpetuate that with your calling.

A View From Inside

If anyone is interested out there, here is what an email to the cast reads like, enjoy!





Hello cast! Last Friday we had many people missing the cast/parent meeting due to it being Memorial Day weekend. Above are attached the ad sheet with which we hope you go out and garner community support for Hairspray, also attached is a brief background of who we are. Please open and read, if you were at the meeting here is the concise information (jpgs in order so everyone could view it -excerpts from a packet presented to donors,used as a media kit, and for the various groups who book us) and ad sheets ready to print out. The script will be sent out via dropbox e-mail so that everyone can have it! All you have to do is make an account and from there you can print it out or use a phone etc. All who would like the complete accompaniment on a program called Rehearscore please bring in a laptop to download it. Rehearscore is an amazing program for learning vocal assignments and harmonies. We added it to the rights contract because we know how valuable it is even though it is really expensive, don't let that resource go to waste.
 
 Please EVERY cast member reply to this email with this sentence "I have read, understand, and will comply with the Order of Conduct. I will fulfill all duties specified as a cast member in Sing For America's Hairspray!"
        Signed: _________________________
 
IF WE RECEIVE NO REPLY - WE WILL ASSUME THAT YOU HAVE DROPPED OUT OF THE SHOW. P
PLease reply to gibs7usa@msn.com ANDPatfoose@gmail.com 

 

We love having every single one of you and each of you are critical to the final product. My last email gives this one context so make sure you read it.  

 

Thank you!

Jewel    

 

    

ORDER OF CONDUCT

As we begin learning this show it is important to remember how intense it will be. This is one of those shows where there is never a “lull,” there is never a filler song or scene, the entire thing is full speed ahead, high energy, 110% for 2 ½ hours straight with a ten minute intermission, which may or may not be a costume change for you so it's not even a break at all!

In order to maintain the focus and productivity level of rehearsals which we must maintain if we expect to perfect this entire show in the short amount of rehearsal hours we have, (especially for such a large cast,) there are a few things that will be expected of you behaviorally in rehearsals.

1. Arrive ON TIME. We can't afford to lose even one minute. If you are running late whatsoever you must inform us via call or text.

2. Due to the large cast size, there may be necessary last minute changes to the schedule so stay on you toes, (and emails). I apologize for the inconvenience this may cause.

3.Once we get closer to opening we may need to extend rehearsal times.

4. Only positive attitudes allowed in the rehearsal room!

5. When you arrive put your belongings in the designated area, put the proper dance shoes on, come to the center of the floor and stretch/warm up until you are given further direction.

6. No cell phones, gaming devices, ipods, etc. whatsoever during rehearsals.

7. To reiterate- if you are going to be late, you must let us know (very important).

8. If you are absent for a rehearsal you were scheduled for you will be expected to study the tape that is posted after rehearsal and learn what you missed. The next time it arises in rehearsal you must know it, if you don't you will be removed from the dance/scene.

9. If you do not give us notice that you will be missing a rehearsal and you did not have an approved conflict your status in the show is immediately suspended pending a meeting with the production team. This meeting will decide how you will make reparations for hurting your cast (i.e. selling extra buttons, extra tickets, extra poster hanging) if terms agreed upon are not met you will sadly be removed from this production. Absence without notice is 100% unacceptable and once an unanticipated absence arises it can make the whole rehearsal a wash, lowering the potential of the entire production.

10. If you need to arrange a ride do so ahead of time. Be mindful and considerate of others and try not to ask last minute or take advantage of others' kindness. Plan ahead and I'm sure your castmates will be open and willing to help you get here.

11. Bring water and eat before you come.

12. No food or drink except water is allowed in rehearsal. Once we get into longer rehearsal hours you will be advised to bring a snack and we will have a short break for it. Until you receive an email about this no food or drink except water.

13. Do not touch the drums or anything else that does not belong to you.

14. Be respectful. We are only going to continue to grow closer and closer with one another and we would never want to compromise the relationship that we have with you. BUT there is a level of respect that must be maintained. No matter how much we enjoy our time together and laugh and joke around, we must understand on both sides that #1 you are all on the same level, you are one cast. #2 we are not on that same level; we are your directors. If you show any level of disrespect it will be addressed. Whether it is addressed in private or not understand that it is not meant to embarrass you, it is meant to move the show along. Your feelings are always being taken into consideration but we are all human and make mistakes. If for any reason you are offended or your feelings are hurt, we want to fix that. But rehearsal is not the time or place. If you disagree with a decision we have made that is ok, we can discuss it, but again, during rehearsal is not the time or place. Come to any of us afterwards and we will work through it together. We care about you as performers and as people and will always do our best to help and have your back whenever you need it. We expect you to extend that same comradery to each other.

15. Be mindful of your fellow castmates and pay particular attention to personal hygiene. Please shower, brush your teeth, wear deodorant, fresh clothing, etc.

16. Take care of yourselves. Nutrition and hydration are very important. You will not attain the sustenance level required to make it through this strenuous show 8 times in only 5 days if you do not devote yourself to your health. Get lots and lots of fresh fruits and vegetables and good fats and proteins like nuts and beans, and drink water. Drink fresh clear water, nothing with sugar or fruit flavors in it, just pure untouched water.

Finally our mission with this company is to spread Light and Truth through entertainment. This means to use art as a tool to elevate man morally, spiritually, and intellectually. Our environment is created for that purpose, therefore language and actions must reflect this. We allow NO profanity and no topics of discussion which do not work towards creating the environment of SFAP. We are a Christian family and those values fuel our theatre. We accept and love people of all creeds and have had the most diverse casts in eastern PA and beyond, yet have never found it an issue as all of us wish to love and be loved. This company is built off of that Truth.

Summer Camp!!!

​​Sing for America is now offering Summer theater camp sessions!! There are 2 sessions to choose from. Theater camps are for all ages and all experience levels. We will meet you at YOUR level. 

First session: June 22nd - 26th 

                           9am - 3pm

                           

Second session: August 10th - 13th

                                9am - 3pm

Classes will be held at: 

Dave Phillips Music and Sound

622 Union Blvd Allentown, PA

To sign up please contact us at 610-417-2289 or email us at Gibs7usa@msn.com

​Price: $150 per student 

We have done many different types of classes in the past and this summer camp will be another new and exciting experience! 

We all love working with  people from all walks of life and experience. It is always a welcome challenge for us to taylor a lesson to a specific person or groups needs. We like to try and create a relaxed and fun environment while still pushing students to their fullest potential. We expect everyone's personal best and we have never been disappointed. 

You don't want to miss this hope to see you there!!! 

ART OF LIGHT

 (sorry for the break in posts finals in college and Seussical clean-up claimed quite the toll on our time but We Are Back! Make sure to check back for my next post on Friday)                                                                                        

                                                                                                Art  of Light

      Sing For America strives to use the arts as a platform to elevate mankind as a whole, spiritually, intellectually, and morally-this community, right here and right now. Our company members and volunteer actors share this mission and we believe it with all of our hearts. Art with purpose is art with positive power. One of the largest ways we perpetuate our mission is by serving the underprivileged communities in our area. Introducing the arts to people who have not had the opportunity or ability to enjoy and grow from participation in or the patron-ship of positive performing arts. This is achieved through professional level performances unrivaled in our area priced at affordable rates. We have priced our tickets as low as we possibly can while still maintaining a profit with which to present to the charities our company supports. This is difficult but we believe in it 100% and through our pricing have shared these precious values with so many first time audience members, so many who had never enjoyed the privilege, so many bright eyed children dreaming of this, so many fathers and mothers brought to tears over finally having the opportunity to bring their children to a musical of this caliber,

elderly who believed they would never get to see a show again, minorities who had never felt welcomed. This is why.

         Power In Truth:Gratitude, respect, love, power is a program for gifted students who need extra help to realize their full potential. Students with talent that needs to be fostered but cannot for financial or social reasons. Under our professional tutelage they are given every opportunity to grow as performers but more importantly as people. Out of the 350 actors who have stepped on our stage over half have not been of full-European decent. Minorities feel welcomed here, all prosper here. Of that 350 over 150 have first stepped on a stage of any kind with our company! That is incredible, such diversity and uncovering of talent is unheard of in our community yet necessary for true progress. We wish to preach diversity and equality yet when we have the opportunity to empower we shun or ignore it. Not here, not anymore. SFA is and continues to give pride , courage, and gratitude to the members of the company. If we wish to solve chronic poverty and lack of educational performance in students within communities plagued by it the answer comes from within themselves. The answer is in giving them the belief and ability to raise themselves to the standard they wish. The arts are our vehicle to do this. Please support.