5-20

What is a happy memory from 8th or 9th grade??

In the 8th grade last year, I participated in the school's annual talent show despite being the new kid. I was the only performance from the 8th grade class (not counting the final song by the entire class) and the only male performance (also not counting the performance by the entire kindergarten class.) I performed the song Because of You by Ne-Yo with a standing ovation. I was quite nervous, but the crowd loved it. That was the happiest moment of my 8th grade year.

This year in 9th grade, I decided early on that I would not let anyone phase me and that I would be my true self. Along with my true self is my passion for theater and acting. So, I tried out for a role in the school production of "Annie". I was given the part of Rooster Hannigan, one which I was not trying out for but drawn to. The practices were annoying, as too many people who tried out would later drop out. Many of the other actors were given multiple roles to patch things up. As a main character, I was not given any other role apart from my own. Fast forward to opening night. I (as with most of the cast) was a nervous wreck a mere hour before curtains would open. The show started and I was backstage for a decent amount of time going over my lines one last time. To sum up the entire ordeal, the audience felt my vibe and loved my performance. Complete strangers came up to me and told me that despite them not knowing who I am, that I have a future in performing arts. This moment was one I will never forget.