As the ITO traveled to New York CIty to help out with the Broadway Cares Equity Fights Aids Flea Market I found myself becoming unusually nervous! I remember the moment I made up my mind to run for ITO and it was right after skimming through snapshots of the previous ITO exploring NYC and having a blast. Right then, I decided I knew that I wanted to pursue being an ITO because it seemed so glamorous and so much fun.
Boy. Glamorous ain't the half of it. Our trip to NYC was one that I can honestly say changed my life. Meeting and interacting with such a vibrant group of artists exposed me to the inter-workings of our theatre "community" at large. Some pun intended. Each actor, director, dancer, producer and volunteer we met had a smile on their face and a burning passion in their hearts. In the hustle and bustle of New York we saw how thousands could come together and make a difference.
For me, the most rewarding part of the trip was having people come up to the ITS booth who were so eager to donate to the cause. I talked to several people who talked with me at length about how theatre changed their life or the lives of their loved ones or how BCEFA had supported them through rough times. It was truly touching to be a part of something that meant so much to so many people and well-deserving people at that. Without a doubt, this was an experience I will never forget as long as I shall live.
"The more I think about it, the more I realize there is nothing more artistic than to love others."
-Vincent Van Gogh