Creativity and collaboration collide to precipitate a magical sort of osmosis at Decatur Performs. Feelings of belonging are forged, insecurities are washed away, and the communal spirit sparked can move mountains. Ingrid Anderson, President of Decatur Performs, has witnessed the life-changing magic of the performing arts. This organization, a proper 501(c)(3), encompasses the performing arts programs at Beacon Hill Middle School and Decatur High School. Decatur Performs supports five programs at the high school (Orchestra, Chorus, Musical Theatre, Acting, Technical Theatre) and three at the middle school (Orchestra, Chorus, Theatre). It includes Decatur’s only theatre and is exceptionally worth supporting. They host over 40 performances every school year, educating and uplifting hundreds of students.
The power of involvement in the performing arts is proven; college acceptance and attendance rates are increased. It provides an excellent opportunity for social development while offering hands-on experience from influential educators. Ingrid vehemently applauds the teachers for their demonstrable collaboration and mutual respect amongst the departments. Joint efforts and camaraderie between the different disciplines provide an excellent example for the kids. On the parents' side, it’s extraordinary to see how much extremely busy yet dedicated volunteers can get done in the name of performance. Parents come together to feed kids during tech week, manage ticket sales, and run the bag check. More than that, Decatur Performs’ ability to garner donations as an official nonprofit enhances all the departmental experiences. Finances are utilized effectively and intentionally: teacher bonuses, chorus formalwear, risers, instruments, and more are funded directly by their organization, filling in the gaps where the city cannot provide.
These programs thrive due to the “amazing educators who really go the extra mile,” Ingrid explains. Their commitment helps make this singularly special effort a success. The teachers pour all their talent and expertise into every artistic decision and curriculum planning unit. This excellence is made possible by parents taking things off the teacher’s plate that can be easily delegated and by simply showing up. One of the best ways for parents to help build their own children’s artistic programs is to advocate with the administration. The more voices emphasizing the need for additional funds and space make all the difference. We all experience seasons of life, and it’s encouraging to see how each parent shows up in whatever way is possible for them in any given year; whether contributing physically, financially, or both, every bit helps. The disciplines supported by Decatur Performs have the awards to back up their efforts. They send the most choral singers to All-State every year from any non-performing arts school. Kids are accepted to incredible universities, thousands of tickets are sold every year, and unforgettable experiences (on stage and off) are created for everyone involved.
How can our Decatur residents support the amazing work this organization is doing? Attend performances and witness the incredible efforts dozens of individuals put into every show, and donate whenever possible. For many kids, their performing arts classes are one of the first times they feel a true sense of belonging. The life skills built (commitment, multi-tasking, and teamwork, to name a few) bloom alongside a social network of other kids who share their passions. Often, they wouldn’t spend time together if not for this love of craft, and it expands social circles while cementing the power of shared experiences. Whether creating a performance or simply witnessing one, humanity blossoms through shared emotions, and art is a riveting way to open one’s mind, soften one’s heart, and garner true inspiration along the way. It’s awe-inspiring to witness an organization like Decatur Performs, pulling together students, teachers, and parents in a shared mission: to create artistic experiences made to affect the community members in attendance. In the words of Decatur High School’s Musical Theater Director, Raven Owen-Beyer, “In a world where so many arts programs are hanging on by a thread, Decatur Performs is enabling us to create top-tier productions with our students. I could not be more grateful." Bask in shared humanity among growing talent with Decatur Performs.
Learn more at decaturperforms.org and on Instagram @decaturperforms and don’t miss “Alice By Heart” opening March 5th at Decatur High School.