I Want to be a Star

As early as eight years old, Bryce Johnson loved to sing, dance, and perform.

Born with a developmental disability, this challenge did not stop Bryce in his pursuit to participate in the world of the performing arts. While attending Valhalla High School in El Cajon, Bryce joined Arms Wide Open with Rubio’s Dance Studio where he has been performing for four years. Learning about our dance and music programs from a friend, Bryce joined St. Madeleine’s and the St. Madeleine’s singers and dance troupe in 2013.

Dance and music are just two of the unique programs offered at St. Madeleine’s. These programs have been part of the SMSC curriculum for several years because they facilitate social interaction, emotional development, and self-expression. Additionally, music stimulates the senses and can help improve a person’s self-confidence, memory, and overall mental health. Music is even more beneficial when paired with dance as it implements a physical component that enhances movement and motor skills.

St. Madeleine’s has recently engaged in a new program for SMSC students involving dance, music and the performing arts. Partnering with Rubio’s Dance Studio, Arms Wide Open, and Christian Youth Theatre (CYT), St. Madeleine’s has established a new performing arts program offering our students a variety of new learning opportunities.

This new program is a series of 8-week musical theatre workshops where students attend classes twice a week, learning songs and dances to popular shows such as The Lion King, Grease, and The Wizard of Oz. Each 8-week course culminates in a professional performance by the students.

We are inviting YOU to support this important opportunity that benefits Bryce and other students at St. Madeleine Sophie’s Center.

Over 100 students are interested in the musical theatre program (25% of SMSC students). However, due to limited funding, only 40 students are currently enrolled.

Since this program is vital to the growth, development and overall well-being of our adult students with developmental disabilities, St. Madeleine’s wants to include all interested students in the program AND continue these workshops throughout the year.

YOUR support is essential to Bryce and the other students who benefit from the Performing Arts Program. Although no gift is too small, please consider making a gift of $150 or more to help us reach our goal of $24,000 for St. Madeleine’s new Performing Arts Program year round.

ð       $150 supports 1 student for an 8-week session

ð       $750 supports 5 students for an 8-week session

ð       $1,500 supports 10 students for an 8-week session

ð       $3,000 supports 20 students for an 8-week session

ð       $6,000 supports 40 students for an 8-week session

ð       $24,000 supports the Performing Arts Program for a full year!

Furthermore, as a special Thank YOU for making a generous gift to this valuable program, you will be invited as a special guest to SMSC students’ first performance of Grease – a heartwarming production you won’t want to miss!

Thank you in advance for supporting Bryce and other students at St. Madeleine Sophie’s Center!

With warm regards,                                                   Gratefully,

Debra Emerson, MBA                                                 Bryce Johnson

Chief Executive Officer                                               SMSC Student and Future Star

Your tax-deductible gift will help write a happy ending for the performing artists at St. Madeleine Sophie’s Center. Please send in your gift today. To make a secure and easy donation online, click here or visit www.stmsc.org.