25% of the student body or 1 out of 4 students. 36 total students. Those are the VCHS student numbers in this Spring’s musical – Newsies. This type of participation is not the high school norm. In fact, I’ve never seen this type of theater student involvement during my career. That’s why I’m highlighting VCHS’s exceptional theater program. The fine arts at VCHS is very much alive, well, and thriving, even in the midst of a pandemic school year.
I know Theater Director Mrs. Carlson chose Newsies for a variety of reasons including its story might just be our students’ story. The 1899 NYC Newsboys' story has similar parallels to our own students’ stories, especially this school year. In the midst of adversity, the Newsboys created community and found human connection, and in doing so, found purpose for a cause far greater than making money. And that’s where Mrs. Carlson will take her students this semester – community, connection, and purpose.
What I also find remarkable about VCHS students is that they’re multi-talented, creative, and willing to step outside their comfort zones. They’re Renaissance people – well-rounded – who pursue academics, the arts, athletics, and much more. This is what’s special about a school our size – students can receive a broad and deep education and be actors on stage, players on the court, and school leaders – doers, not spectators.
Hats off VCHS Newsies!
Steve O'Neil
