Jude Hebit

The stage has been pretty empty this past year, so it was refreshing to be able to go see a live performance, especially one indoors, with enhanced safety protocols. I have tried to attend as many events as my schedule will allow, but musicals naturally have been scarce. Rise Above Performing Arts always exceeds my expectations and their production of “All Shook Up” was yet another confirmation of the incredible work produced by this group of talented young performers.

The world is in a surreal and crazy state. So, what better musical to be one of the first out of the COVID hibernation than Rise Above Performing Arts’ production of “Carrie.”

Rise Above Performing Arts is getting set to enter its 5th season in our community. The nonprofit focuses its mission on producing full scale, Broadway style productions performed completely by young people. For the past four years, Rise Above has produced all of its shows at the Glenridge Performing Arts Center while renting government and local space for rehearsals.

As I entered the theatre to pick up my tickets for Rise Above Performing Arts production of a?oeWest Side Storya?? I overheard Artistic Director, Jacob Ruscoe talking with a patron about the show. He said, a?oeYou really can't judge a musical by the age of the performers because a great show is a great show.a?? Having seen their productions in the past I knew achieving this feat with this show would be a challenge and I was pleasantly surprised that they not only met but exceeded this challenge to produce a very impressive rendition of this beloved story.

I love stories that make you think. You know they ones that make your mind contemplate what is wrong and what is right. I knew I was in for a great evening when Director Scott Keys took the stage before the show and asked the question, a?oeIf you could live forever, would you?a?? With that thought racing through the minds of the audience a?oeTuck Everlastinga?? produced by Booker High School began.

The holidays are upon us and with it we have the pleasure of being surrounded by the looks and sounds of the season. Our local theatres are doing their part by presenting some memorable holiday tales. I have made it a point this year to delve into the holiday season and make it one full of joy so what could bring one more inner happiness than by seeing a?oeIt's a Wonderful Life?a?? Manatee Performing Arts Center is performing the story that will warm your heart.

In 2008, I was one of the few who was privileged enough to see a?oeGlory Daysa?? open (and close) on Broadway. So, when I saw that the show was in our area I made it a priority to attend. My anticipation for what I had hoped to witness did not go unfilled as Rise Above Performing Arts delivered a passionate rendition of this much maligned musical.