Made for the stage

Well, we did it. My husband and I convinced our daughter to appear on stage with us in a show! I never really wanted to push her into theatre - I wanted it to be a decision she made on her own. Although if anyone is going to be on the stage, it's her. She is the most animated and witty and talented little thing. Everyone says she's made for the stage. Again, nurture vs. nature? I'd say she was born with 80% and we've just helped along with the additional 20!

My husband is directing a Christmas revue at his theatre. Because I do enjoy the holidays, and I wanted to see my husband during those weeks leading up to Christmas, I auditioned. His daughter auditioned as well and will be in the show. Hubby needed a young male to read some of the war letters that troops sent home around the holidays, so he enlisted his son, who is begrudgingly joining in (more like forced, but I had nothing to do with that). So, it was only inevitable that our 5-year-old would join as well. I didn't want to push her into anything she didn't want to do. I don't want to be one of those parents who pushes activities on a child. But after the first rehearsal, and knowing she could sing Rudolph and Santa Claus is coming to town, she too reluctantly agreed.

Growing up, I didn't have the type of exposure to different activities that I had really wanted. The only reason I got into theatre was because of my two older sisters. Then it was up to me to pursue my own talents and activities. I want to be the type of parent that allows their child to try out many different things and choose what they want to do. Maya is five, and so far, she's taken ballet, swimming lessons at school, has gone to numerous plays and concerts, sporting events, and more. While guiding her towards what I think she will like, the decision on who and what she wants to be solely lies with her. I can't help it if I help nudge her a bit along the way!