It's interesting to see the results when people give something back to the industry, as was the case four years ago when Karen Burt of Planet Productions Code Teen and Gavin Taylor of the GrandWest Entertainment in Cape Town spearheaded the successful music and entertainment initiative called Backstage Pass High School Jam. The performance project did not only unite cultures, communities, schools and families, but above all encouraged self-pride, achievement, self-appreciation and the fulfilment of dreams.
Inspired Stages, hosted at the GrandWest, was the next step of the journey, giving students the opportunity to perform, discover and have a blast on a week-long workshop, offering all the world class support the budding 'superstars' deserve.
Industry professionals, popular role models and well known local and international award winning performers anchored the workshop sessions ensuring unparalleled opportunities and hands on expertise.
Every day was a Backstage Pass to meet, learn and perform with the stars and mentors, includingKarin Kortjie, Bianca Le Grange, Don Vion, Jason Meyer, Mike Vaughan and the Rescu Band, Ruby Barton and many more. DWR were a sponsor of the journey and made up t-shirts for the students.
"The week's workshop was beyond phenomenal and we have been inundated with thanks and overwhelming feedback," commented Karen Burt. "Gavin and I are humbled at all the generosity and support we received in making these teen dreams come true."
For the organizers, a highlight was a young boy of 17, from Reach for a Dream, who had a dream to have an electric guitar and perform like a rock star on the stage for an audience. Reach for a Dream organized the guitar while Inspired Stages teens helped him create his dream and perform in the show hosted on the Friday evening. It was special performance.
High School Jam 2014, hosted on 23 and 24 August at the GrandWest Grand Arena, followed the success of Inspired Stages. This event saw 11 high schools and over 1 000 performers on stage with the objective to develop self-esteem and self worth.
(Jim Evans)
