Just down the highway from Rock Creek, the Wamego Columbian Theater Academy is not just a place for actors; it is like a close group of friends where people from all local communities support each other. People there are friendly and welcoming, making it feel like a second home for five of our Rock Creek kids who dream of performing on stage. These freshmen include Abigail Kottke, Denise Doucett, Emma Pittenger, Kaydee Chicora, and Taryn Scott.
“At the end we were kind of all friends… definitely some people that I wouldn’t see myself talking to, I started talking to… I think that was really cool,” shares an enthusiastic Columbian participant and Rock Creek Freshman, Taryn Scott.
Scott echoes this statement, noting, “we can all kind of relate to each other. We can give each other feedback and work together. And experiencing that with friends is like the best feeling because you’re backstage talking to your friends, about to go on stage. It’s just like, everybody’s nervous but excited and it’s really an experience.”
This sense of companionship sets the stage for the academy’s latest enchanting production, “The Spell of Sleeping Beauty.” This captivating retelling of the classic fairy tale portrays a mystical narrative, drawing audiences into a world where magic and friendship collide.
“You feel like family with your friends. Making those connections with other people that you don’t go to school with. You don’t see them every day until you’re at The Colombian,” expresses Columbian member and moreover Rock Creek Freshman, Denise Doucett, highlighting the emotional apex of the production.
The transformative power of theater, especially within a close-knit community, is evident in the success of “The Spell of Sleeping Beauty.” The performance not only captivated hearts but also showcased the incredible talent and dedication nurtured within the Wamego Columbian Theater Academy.
Doucett shares,”I think that’s just kind of how the Columbian runs, it’s based on memories and that’s how the show comes together.”
The Columbian Theatre stands as a beacon of creativity and community, fostering a love for the performing arts and creating memories that will last a lifetime for not only the Wamego community but also several of our Rock Creek Freshman.
