Performing Project In Lawrence Brings Theater Experience To City Kids
LAWRENCE (CBS) - Bringing the excitement of theater to city kids who may not otherwise be able to have the experience.
That's the goal of The Performing Project in Lawrence. And it's all the brainchild of a young dynamo.
It's just 2 days before show time and the energy is through the roof at the Parthum School in Lawrence where about 80 students ranging from kindergartners to high school seniors are rehearsing Shrek Jr.
"It's a non-profit I started 4 years ago," says Maggie Budzyna, who was just 11 when she got the idea.
She's all of 14 now.
Here's what happened.
A budding actor, Maggie was rehearsing a show in Lawrence and realized that out of 50 kids, none lived in the city.
"My mom explained to me that it was hard for some kids in Lawrence to pay for it. I can't imagine what my life would be without theater, so I really wanted to bring it to kids who didn't have the chance," Maggie told WBZ-TV.
The Performing Project was born, with Maggie raising money and recruiting volunteers. She now directs the musicals.
"The kids are amazing. Even the kids that have had absolutely no theater exposure can honestly be the ones who surprise you the most," she says.
Madyson Mejia, who is 14, has been with the program all 4 years.
"They're always there to tell you you can do better, but that you're doing great," she says.
"I probably would never have done theater if I hadn't done this. I feel great. I feel like the whole entire world is revolving around me," says 12-year-old Acxavier Mitchell, who is one of the actors.
The program is only 2 weeks long, so the students go from start to a polished show.
"I love that it gives you more opportunities to, like, make your mark in the world and show everyone what you're made of," says 10-year-old Jenevieve Young who is a first-timer in the program.
The Performing Project's production of Shrek Jr. is this Friday and Saturday, Aug. 14-15.
For details, visit their web site or their Facebook page.
Break a leg!
