What is another voice in the crowd when you listen and read so many words all at once? Words may pass you by, words may not stick, and words can become an endless cacophony of endless noise. In this day and age, it can become a little much. And I wish I could save you from the noise.
All that I ask is that this letter reaches you.
Inside everyone's a little box. And that box creates the most beautiful sound, the most elegant instrument, the most destructive weapon. A voice. A way to tell a tale in a connection so deep and personal to an audience. I was always scared of that little box. I was petrified that it would make a fool out of me. So I never opened it up. And I tucked the little box away.
Then I took a chance with an empty class in my schedule.
I thought theater would be a one-time thing. Just a throwaway class. I would never have predicted that the theater pathway would be a rushing current that would carry my little sailboat to a bright future.
Theater pushed my boundaries as a writer to consider other ways of sharing stories. I’ve written five one-act plays in the span of two years, and I’m currently in the process of writing a three-act play. I plan to take higher education classes in college involving theater. I’m proud to say that I’d consider myself a well-rounded writer, which is something I’ve always dreamed of.
I’ve found my confidence to find the right words to speak out against injustice in my life. I became a student leader in my school’s Justice League club, focusing on making positive changes to my school and curriculum. I also became a student officer in my school’s Gay-Straight Alliance. I would have never even thought about taking these opportunities without finding and opening up my little box.
I’ve learned about the importance of authenticity, giving a good show, and expanded my writing from simple stanzas to expansive worlds on a stage. And I hope that with Theatre in Our Schools Month, other students can learn to appreciate theater like I do. I’m only a droplet in a sea of hundreds of student voices. I hope that their words reach you as well.
All it takes is a chance.
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