News
TOUCH OF LIFE TALENTED AREA YOUTHS SHINE AT CLAY CENTER
Publication: THE CHARLESTON GAZETTE
Published: 05/11/2005
Page: 33
Byline: DON SPRINGER
"Let us sing! Let us sing! Let us dance! Let us dance! Let us play! Let us play!"
Sing, dance and play they did at the Clay Center for Arts and Sciences on Friday, April 29. I am speaking of all of those who participated in the Youth Organizations United concert and ballet. Approximately 250 young people from the River City Youth Ballet, the Appalachian Children's Chorus and the West Virginia Youth Symphony kept their audience in deep appreciation of their talents throughout the evening.
It appeared to me to be a near-sellout, if not a sellout, that evening as parents, relatives, friends and just plain individuals who appreciate music and our youth came to the Maier Theater on a rainy night to see these fine performances.
As I watched and listened I became more and more amazed at the effort that had to have gone into this production was brought to my attention. These Kanawha Valley young people had to have a hearty dedication to these productions and many, many adults the same. The enormity of putting together a concert and the ballet " Cinderella " for this evening was a discussion of many in the audience during intermission and in the lobby following the event.
While a few adults participated as actors in " Cinderella ," most of the parts were carried out by young people of all ages. It appeared to me the youngest in the ballet were about 6 and others were 8, 10, 12 and on through the late teens.
I was smiling and somewhat amazed most of the evening. The ballet leads, Cinderella , the Fairy Godmother, the Stepsisters and Mother, Jester and other dancers, had to have made their parents and adult leaders pleased with their performances.
The Concert Choir, Chamber Choir and Camerata Choir, all had their best voices present that night as they sang a number of pieces for their audience. Perhaps the most rousing effort was "The Battle Hymn of the Republic" with accompaniment by the George Washington High School band.
I believe I got my most enjoyment near the end when all three choirs were on stage together and sang the "Hymn of Promise." It is a cliche, I know, but they did a great job. My hat is off to all the youngsters who participated and a great tip of the Touch of Life Hat goes out to all of the adults who took on this task and turned it into a fine performance.
I would like to take the time to point individually to the youngsters and adults whose efforts were evident that Friday evening, but space does not allow it. Each participant deserves some recognition. But each child was a "part of the whole" that produced fine vocals from the choirs and great songs and ballet dancing for " Cinderella ."
When spring 2006 rolls around and the Youth Organizations United perform again, attend and be part of it all.
