Reasha Walsh of Summerside has created a company that she feels will give Islanders a unique way to build confidence and have fun.
Walsh has always dreamed of running her own theatre program. After five years of teaching, two years of research and six months of planning, she is the proud owner of the Spotlight Theatre Company.
"I think the more arts programs available on P.E.I., the better," Walsh said. "I'm so excited to start teaching the lessons I have been working on."
Walsh has directed plays at Harbourfront Jubilee Theatre, she has held theatre camps on P.E.I., and has been involved in arts programs most of her life.
"All of my programs are designed to build confidence," she said. "I want to help people who are very shy, come out of their shell and flourish."
Spotlight Theatre will offer weekly classes for all ages and skill levels in Alberton, Charlottetown and Summerside beginning the end of September.
"There will be classes in musical theatre, improv, acting, a lot of different things," said Walsh. "All of my classes are very hands on. There will be an hour class each week up until June and then we will do an end of the year recital."
Walsh stresses that people without any experience in arts are welcome to participate in the program.
"I'm here to teach you, if you don't know anything at all, come and learn," said Walsh.
Walsh said the most rewarding part of being an arts teacher is seeing her students develop.
"It's so heartwarming to see kids who start off very shy in the beginning become stars on stage," she said.
Robyn Gallant of Wellington has already signed up for Spotlight Theatre.
"I'm going to be taking musical theatre and improv," said Gallant. "I'm really looking forward to it. I was one of those shy kids and it really gave me a lot of confidence."
Gallant said is looking forward to the opportunity to work on her acting and singing.
"I can't wait to get back into theatre," she said. "I've worked with Reasha before and I loved it."
Walsh said as long as her new company allows her students to enjoy themselves, she will be pleased with what she has created.
"I just want my students to have a lot of fun and to push themselves to be their best," said Walsh.
Aspiring artists can learn more about Spotlight Theatre by visiting the company page on Facebook.
