Hello everyone! This summer has been kind of crazy, especially with the pandemic and all. It's been hard to keep shifting, being creative as an artist, and finding projects to work on. But adaptability has become my middle name, so here's an update of some stuff I did over the summer!
Staying in the Theatre World
Even though live theatre is currently shut down, I was able to take part in various virtual performances and events this summer. I was able to return to the Hanover Theatre via Zoom this summer, and I was their Music Assistant for the PreTeen YSP program. We did Spamalot Jr. over Zoom, and it was fantastic. The kids were eager to learn and they were so adaptable throughout this entire process. I loved leading warmups every morning, teaching them the music, helping them record their vocals on SoundTrap, coaching them individually, listening to their recordings, and giving them feedback on how they could improve. This experience further cemented my love of teaching, and I was so proud of these kids for being able to learn and produce this show in an entirely new format in two weeks.
Another exciting event I was a part of this summer were various national vocal competitions. I entered the New England NATS competition, and won first place in the Upper College Musical Theatre Treble Division. From that win, I was able to enter the National NATS Student Competition and attend the student convention as well. Although I did not become a finalist, it was an amazing experience. I got to take some great workshops such as Country Singing 101 and Musician Legalese: Understanding Contracts and the Law for Professional Singers, Teachers, and Composers. I also entered the CS Music National Competition and made it to the second round. I attended many masterclasses led by Minda Larsen, Alex Finke, and many more. I received some amazing feedback and learned so much. I'm so grateful for the opportunity to participate in these online competitions and conventions. I love to learn, and I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities both NATS and CS Music gave me.
My Day Job
As everyone knows, live theatre was completely shut down this summer. As a result, I spent most of my summer working at Randall's Farm and Greenhouse as a Deli Clerk. I've been working there on and off since I was 16. I started packaging pastries, mostly cider doughnuts, during their fall season. I would come back for holidays and special events to help out. Last year, I was trained on slicers, sandwiches, and the counter as well. This year I was able to provide full customer service and learn more than I had in years past. This year was also incredibly different, but I am so thankful to my Randall's family for always welcoming me back with open arms. At the end of this summer, I decided to resign from Randall's. I have learned so much from being there and I am very thankful for the opportunity, but it was just time to move on. I still go back weekly if not almost daily to get groceries for my family and to see my deli family.
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