Home-Schooler To Drama King

PEACHTREE CITY, Ga -- by Kevin Kim

I clearly remember my return to the public education system in the seventh grade after a four-year hiatus as a home-schooler. I was terrified of a new way of learning, scared of a foreign classroom, and petrified of teachers and fellow classmates. As a result, I sought the apparent safety of a withdrawn and apprehensive personality.

I entered high school, and things did not change very much for me. I remained the shy, confidence-lacking kid who slunk through the hallways of our school.

Then in my sophomore year, I attended the McIntosh drama department’s performance of “The Wizard of Oz” and I was mesmerized. The actors’ and actresses’ performances combined with the music and choreography enthralled me. The air in the auditorium seemed to spark and invigorate me, and I thought to myself, “This looks like something I’d enjoy doing. Acting and drama.”

Never before that night had I ever considered participating in any activities involving theatre and drama. I have never possessed an outgoing personality and I was never of a bold and unabashed character.

But junior year snuck up on me, and before I knew it, I found myself auditioning and performing in the school production of “Alice in Wonderland.” I had a minor role as the grog footman, but we all shared a certain energy like none I had experienced before. We laughed and joked and had a great time during the months, weeks, and finally days leading up to opening night.

Being a part of the McIntosh drama department has helped me be more vocal in the classroom during discussions and presentations. Now, as a senior, I find myself playing one of the lead roles in our production of “You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown,” and I could not be more excited. All in all, I have our fantastic drama department to thank for that.