Performing arts students form everlasting bond
By J. Andrew Dickenson
Cecil College Performing Arts Coordinator and Professor of Music
A few weeks ago, the backstage of Elkton Station’s Performing Arts Hall was buzzing with a small group of music and theater students filled with anticipation and nervousness. They were preparing to go on stage for the Capstone Showcase, a performance featuring students in their fourth semester. Earlier in the year, they had chosen selections from music and theater repertoire and then spent the next few months preparing almost completely on their own. In spite of their nerves, the excitement in the air was palpable. I looked around and saw students running lines, humming to themselves, strumming chords, and stretching limbs. Eventually some jokes were made and, as they started talking, I could see the friendships, encouragement, love and support they had for each other.
Two years ago, these were students who hardly knew each other at all. Most of them came from different high schools, and many came from different walks of life. Their interests are varied: some have a passion for classical music, others enjoy rock music, and some have found a niche with musical theater. Some prefer straight plays, some like to be challenged with experimental theater, and others stick with traditional playwrights. But friendships develop quickly, and the diversity ends up being something that strengthens the bonds.
When I think back over the last two years, it’s easy to get emotional. I can remember their first days of classes, when most of them were shy and timid, how they quickly became friends, and how with each course, workshop, lesson and performance have become more confident. They have grown not just as musicians and actors, but as people. As students graduate and move on from the program, I’ve watched some transfer, some build their performance careers, and others start teaching. But the bond that has been built here never goes away, and many alumni have continued to perform with us even after graduating. Some of our best shows have been the ones that feature students, alumni and community members all working together. We’re a small college in a small community, but that makes the bonds even stronger. It’s no exaggeration to say that we’re a family, and I feel lucky to have the opportunity to work with such wonderful people.
The students who took the stage that night had chosen works of art that were not only representative of their time at Cecil, but representative of who they are as performers. The program was as varied and personal as the students themselves. Classical music sat side by side with pop and rock music, and original compositions were as important as the celebrated playwrights. As students make the transition into the professional arts world, this kind of identity becomes more and more important. Seeing the students already start to develop their distinctive styles gave me and the other instructors feelings of pride as well as the confidence that after leaving here they will find their way in a sometimes seemingly nebulous world.
As each capstone performer took their bow, they no longer looked like students to me. The people I had spent two years with were walking off the stage as professionals. And even as they move on from the college, it gives me pride that they have made their mark on this program. While they will be missed greatly, I have no doubt they will be remembered fondly by those who have worked with them and will be an inspiration for those students who come after them.
