The Performing Project is an organization based in Lawrence, Massachusetts that is aimed to provide theatrical experiences for children that would otherwise be unable to participate due to the financial costs that often accompany children's theatre. This incredible organization was founded by one of my best childhood friends, Maggie Budzyna, and after learning about her idea, I knew I had to be involved. I began helping at thirteen years old and was a part of the Performing Project Family until I moved for college. It was here I first discovered the passion I had for making theatre accessible and that I met some of the most talented kids I've ever encountered. 

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The structure of the Performing Project was that of a two week camp, in which participants spent the day learning a junior production that would be shown to their families at the end of our time together. During the camp, I would assist in creating the choreography for the show, preparing lunches for each camper, building and painting sets, as well as helping backstage to prepare for the final performances. Ranging from ages nine to eighteen, under the direction of Maggie, the students were able to put up productions of The Wizard of Oz, Aladdin Jr, Shrek Jr, and The Little Mermaid Jr. 

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This experience, more than anything, displayed the power that theatre has. Watching children experience standing onstage for the first time and seeing the joy it brought them provides a feeling like no other.