Talented thespians show their skills

Gallery • 18 Photos

On Jan. 27, Milton S.T.A.G.E. (Supporting the Arts in General Education) hosted a fundraising event called Talent, Coffee and Dessert.

According to Mr. Bergmueller, this was to raise funds for activities, like an upcoming trip to Broadway’s The Lion King Production in New York City. Seventy-one people attended and they raised $215.

S.T.A.G.E. is “a booster organization that is open to anyone in the community,” according to the event program.

With the help of Music Instructor Mr. Eric Bergmueller, S.T.A.G.E. President Ms. Collen Franciscus, Vice President Ms. Jen Russell, Treasurer Ms. Cindy Krebs, the students of Milton’s performing arts and choir programs held a showcase of performing arts talents with light refreshments, said Mr. Bergmueller. Meadowbrook Christian School student Keegan Gill helped with audio visual tech.

The talent showcase was held at Saint Paul’s Community United Church in Milton. Mr. Bergmueller added one of the S.T.A.G.E. parents is a member of the church and helped the students get the venue.

“Unfortunately, we missed a couple of days this week at school, and so this was really sort of fly by the seat of your pants,” said Mr. Bergmueller. The admission was free, but donations were accepted, according to the program.

“Really, the kids did a lot of the work themselves organizing it,” said Mr. Bergmueller. “I’m really happy that the kids stepped up and made it what it could be.”

According to Mr. Bergmueller, they will continue to do this event because it gives the students more time in front of an audience.

“Finally, it is important to acknowledge and foster the community’s involvement with our students and the Performing Arts programs at Milton Area School District,” said Mr. Bergmueller.

Senior Fallon Waughen sang “The Ballade of Jane Doe” from the musical Ride the Cyclone. Senior Chloe Russell sang “Part of Your World” from The Little Mermaid and “My Petersburg” from Anastasia.

Senior Jillian Latchford performed a piano selection, and Senior Gavin Russell performed improvisational comedy.

Senior Savannah Richhart and Junior Carley Braham sang “Wagon Wheel” by Darius Rucker. Carley also sang “House of Memories” by Panic! At the Disco.

Junior Rafael Martinez II sang “Can’t Help Falling in Love with You” by Elvis Presley and “Sway” by Michael Bublé. Junior Ely Reitz and Rafael sang “Man or Muppet” from The Muppets.

Ely also sang “Not the Boy Next Door” from The Boy from Oz. Sophomore Jonny Austinson-Loss, Freshman Elias Franciscus and Ely sang “Bad Romance” by Lady Gaga.

Jonny also sang “&” by Tally Hall. Elias sang “What A Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong.

Sophomore Carlie Dauberman sang “All of Me” by John Legend and an original song titled “Life.” Freshman Gabbie Heckman sang “Dead Mom” from Beetlejuice.

At the event, Mr. Bergmueller asked if any of the 2022 Milton Alumni who came to support would like to perform. Jillian and Jacquelyn Hopple sang “I Dreamed a Dream” from Les Misérables. Micah Fritz sang “Ain’t No Rest for the Wicked” by Cage the Elephant. Dillan Guinn-Bailey performed “Something’s Wrong” by Myuu on the piano.

Mr. Bergmueller said the choir and performing arts programs environment is “fun” and students learn a lot.

“I try to be a supportive person for them and give them help when they need it, and stay out of their way otherwise,” added Mr. Bergmueller.