A Theatre Kid, Still

I was supposed to be inactive in theatre.

But if there's one thing I've learned about myself, it's that I can never say no when someone asks me to help tell a story. So when Octave Music Camp reached out and asked if I could assist, my response was simple:

"When?" 😄

What I didn't expect was how much Octave's culture would resonate with me. The values, the sense of family, the commitment to the craft, and the genuine care for young artists reminded me so much of the culture we built in my own theatre family, CTC.

I will always be grateful to Ms. Alexandrea and Ms. Claresa for pulling me back into a world I thought I had stepped away from. Through this journey, I was reminded of something I have always known but sometimes forget: despite my ongoing health challenges, theatre still makes me feel alive. It is a natural high, an adrenaline rush unlike any other. When I am creating, mentoring, rehearsing, and sharing stories, the aches fade into the background. It is only when the curtain falls that I remember they were there.

To the cast, production team, parents, volunteers, and everyone who became part of this journey - thank you. Working with all of you has been a blessing. I am proud of what we created together and even prouder of the community that formed around it.

Two full-house shows. Countless memories. Endless gratitude.

I hope our paths cross again on another stage, in another rehearsal hall, and in another story waiting to be told. Until then, know that I will always be here - not just as a coach, not just as a director, but as a friend and a Kuya.

For now, Coach Sonny of Octave's The Little Mermaid Jr. is signing off.

Blessed. Humbled. Grateful. 🎭