SMOKEY POINT — Christmas is once again coming early, to benefit KidsDream of Snohomish County, and aspiring young actors can pitch in this year.
The Smokey Point Community Church’s sixth annual production of the Christmas musical “A Star is Born” is looking for singers and actors, from third- through eighth-grades, to take part in their play, which will solicit donated items for KidsDream.
Tammie Clifford, of the Smokey Point Community Church, noted that this is the first year the church has invited young actors from outside their congregation to perform in the play. She encouraged children “of all ability levels” to try out, since “you don’t even have to be able to sing or act all that well. You just have to want to be here. I’d love to see a hundred kids here.”
Admission is free, but the church is requesting donations of new socks, underwear and pajamas for kids ranging from newborns through teenagers, to be donated in turn to KidsDream.
KidsDream’s stated mission is to help fulfill the dreams of abused and neglected children throughout Snohomish County, by fostering their skills, talents and self-esteem, through avenues as diverse as music lessons, sports, attending prom, riding bicycles and summer camp. It also seeks to involve communities in helping such children.
“I think the most we’ve ever raised is $650, so it’d be nice to see us match that, especially in this economy,” Clifford said. “Only about 30 percent of foster kids graduate from high school, so KidsDream helps them out, even with little things like class rings and prom dresses.”
The goal of the donation drive, which begins collecting Nov. 29, dovetails with the message of the play, which, as Clifford pointed out, is that “the true meaning of Christmas isn’t about getting presents, but is instead about giving to others, and putting them ahead of yourself.”
The first practice and parent meeting for the play takes place Sept. 21 from 12:30-1:30 p.m., with auditions immediately following, and regular practices will take place Saturdays from 5-6:15 p.m., starting Sept. 27. The cast will perform the play twice Dec. 7.
For more information, call Clifford at 360-659-2844.
