The theater workshop kicked off with a bang. Our first special guest was none other than Paul Nieshus IV, a musician and producer. He shared stories of his journey in the music industry, highlighting his experiences as a songwriter and collaborator with various artists. It was awe-inspiring to witness his transition into a solo artist, and he treated us to a breathtaking performance of one of his original songs. The entire crowd couldn’t help but be enchanted by his performance, as we all joined in to create a magical moment filled with angelic harmonies.
But the surprises didn’t end there; our very own security guard, Eric Ingram, had a hidden talent that left us all astounded. Little did we know, behind that uniform, he had been quietly perfecting his skills as a filmmaker. Countless late nights were spent pouring his heart and soul into his craft, meticulously shaping scenes, and refining every shot. His dedication and unwavering commitment to his passion paid off when one of his films received recognition and won awards at several small film festivals across the country. The Theater pathway is now buzzing with excitement and awe as the talented security guard’s filmmaking prowess is no longer a secret that remains hidden in the shadows.
But hold on, because the biggest surprise was yet to come. One of the guests in his film was none other than Ali Moseia—an exceptional actor who had previously visited our school. Being a part of Mr.Ingram’s project added another dimension to his already impressive career, as he saw the potential and talent that this security guard possessed. The excitement in the air reached new heights as students, teachers, and the community eagerly awaited the screening of their extraordinary collaboration. It was a moment that would forever be etched into our memories.
However, our last guest took a different turn from the realm of acting and music. Brandon “Hot Sauce” Glover, an up-and-coming St. Louis comedian, took the stage, captivating the audience with his unique blend of humor and storytelling. As he began his set, the energy in the room shifted. His relatable anecdotes and witty observations had everyone bursting into fits of laughter. We couldn’t help but see ourselves in his stories, reminding us that laughter truly is the best medicine. But it didn’t stop there. Hot Sauce shared his own journey, highlighting the power of perseverance and the importance of embracing one’s true calling. From his early days as a class clown to becoming a renowned comedian, he reminded us all that dreams can come true, even when they seem far-fetched at first.
Being a former class clown himself, Hot Sauce took the experience to the next level by inviting students onto the stage, giving them a chance to share their funniest stories. The room was filled with laughter and applause as classmates crowned the chosen students who they thought were class clowns.
With each student, the joy and laughter that filled the room were contagious, making the theater workshop an unforgettable experience for everyone present. And as if that wasn’t enough, Hot Sauce even offered to have a one-on-one conversation with Kityana March, the student who received the biggest reaction from the audience. It overall left a lasting impact on their confidence and belief in her own abilities.
Looking back on the theater workshop, it was nothing short of magical. The lineup of incredible guests, including Brandon “Hot Sauce” Glover, Paul Nieshus the 4th, and Ali Moseia brought an abundance of joy, entertainment, and inspiration to everyone present. It was a reminder of the power of the arts and the ability to find yourself in the most unknown places.
