In December 2013, we went carolling at Admirals Coast Retirement Centre and held a Winter Recital at Suncor Energy Hall at the School of Music, where we performed group and solo work.
In February 2014, students sang in the Kiwanis Music Festival, both competitive and non competitive; special congratulations to Nathan Mackey who placed first in his Musical Theatre Solo class.
In May, we held an afternoon of Folk/Traditional Songs at Meadowcreek Retirement Centre.
In June, we launched our annual Cabaret at Rotary Paradise Youth and Community Centre. This was an evening dedicated to showcasing individual talents as well as showing how strongly we worked as a group. Students picked most of the song selections for the evening, often accompanying themselves and others. When they weren't leading the song, they were harmonizing, accompanying, or being cheerleaders for the rest of the group. Each took their turn in the spot light, and supported others as they did the same. We had refreshments, and tables set up for guests where they could relax while enjoying the show. The show was two acts of Musical Theatre, Pop, Indie and Alternative music - quite the accomplishment, especially since for some students, it was their first time part of a big show like this. Congrats to all the students who prepared and worked hard for this event. Thanks to all the volunteers, parents, and loved ones who made this night possible for us. I'm happy to say that my first show of this calibre was a huge success. This event was also not-for-profit, so I was able to give away three two hundred dollar tuition vouchers to three lucky students whose names were drawn out of my returning students.
As for me, I managed to run my studio as well as perform in Wizard Of Oz, Freckleface Strawberry, Les Miserables, and put off a Cabaret titled "SUIT UP!" for Best Kind Productions that featured myself and Megan Barnes for a night of Musical Theatre tunes.
I'm very pleased with my work, my students and want to give each and every one of you a huge pat on the back. We have all worked so hard. A beautiful wrap to the 2013-2014 season. I can't wait to start again in September--we have 7 new students joining us in the fall and I can't wait to work with them and make them part of this encouraging, supportive family that we've built.
Videos and more pictures to come from "We Are Stars: a Cabaret"!
Check back soon!
All the best,
Courtney Fowler
