The Florida State Junior Thespians competition collects students grades 6 thru 8 to perform in 12 individual categories and a one-act play festival.  The singular events are as follows:

• Monologue
• Duet Acting
• Ensemble Acting
• Solo Musical Theatre
• Duet Musical Theatre
• Small Group Musical
• Large Group Musical
• Pantomime
• Scene Design
• Costume Design
• Publicity Design
• Playwriting

The one act plays can range from original works (can you imagine being that young and writing a play?) to already published materials or cuttings from full-length plays.

This weekend I will be one of the many judges taking part in the competition.  I owe my involvement to my beautiful wife who will not only be judging events herself, but running workshops to help guide these budding little talents.

It will be held at the American Heritage School (my girl’s old high school) and is directed by their Chairman of Fine Arts, Jim Usher (who was also my girl’s drama teacher).  This is an especially poignant event because after a decade of running this competition Mr. Usher will be passing the torch.

I expect this to be an experience saturated with passion for theater.  The one thing I’m truly looking forward to is the fearlessness that only comes with youth.  Kids willing to throw themselves completely into a part and living in a moment with no self consciousness whatsoever.  Of course they all won’t be in that zone, but when I do come across it I plan to absorb every second of it.

It’s a shame I’m coming late to the game (next year will be held in Melbourne, FL), but at least I got to enjoy the opportunity once before its venue change.

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