Sponsored by: McLaren Port Huron
More than Learning Lines: Students Overcoming Obstacles & Forming Family Through Theatre
Written by Audrey Sochor
Port Huron Northern drama club’s upcoming performances of “Bye Bye Birdie” aren’t your typical high school production. While this late 1950s musical features great songs and dancing, it also showcases the talents of the students involved, including those with learning or physical disabilities.
One such student is junior Alexandra Allers, who is losing her sight. Allers loves to act and sing and pursues her passion by overcoming her challenges with the help of her friend and fellow junior Annika Borovich.
Although Borovich is part of the tech crew for the production, she devotes time out of her day to learn the choreography and then teach it to Allers.
“I can’t even really put into words how much it means to me,” Allers said. “I really appreciate all that she does for me and all the time that she has to put in to help me do something that I love to do.”
Friends since the sixth grade, Borovich has always helped her out. This is the third year of her teaching Allers choreography for drama club. Learning the movements can be overwhelming for Allers, Borovich said, and it strengthens their friendship when Borovich can teach it to Allers on her on time.
“It chokes me up every time I think of [Alexandra and Annika],” said Renee Barr, theater supervisor and drama coach for Port Huron Northern. “To have that kind of a friendship is just not something you get in a lifetime. Sometimes you’re lucky enough and those two are very lucky to have each other. They benefit from both what they give each other.”
For many, Barr said, theater is a safe haven. It’s an area where these students grow and build confidence, even those who are overcoming disabilities. It’s still an area where they can excel, and they can feel good about what they’re doing and what they’re accomplishing.
“I’ve had students say to me thank you for giving me a second home,” Barr said. “And it’s not me giving them a second home, it’s the theater that does, and it’s where they feel most comfortable.”
In all the show has 35 tech crew, 55 cast and 24 in the pit orchestra, so Barr said it’s important for everyone to work as a team, because if they don’t the show doesn’t come together. And as Borovich can testify, that teamwork is built over hundreds of hours of rehearsal.
“But the love that is felt and the moments that are shared, that is family for them and it’s very, very disheartening when they are done because they feel like they’re separating from their families,” Barr said.
“Bye Bye Birdie” will have seven performances March 22-25. Matinees are March 22 at 9 a.m.; March 23 at 12 p.m.; March 24 and 25 at 2 p.m. with evening performances March 22-24 at 7 p.m. Cost is $10 for adults, $8 for students/seniors. All performances will be held at Port Huron Northern Performing Arts Center at 1799 Krafft Road, Port Huron.
