Alumni Stepping Up to Soar

With so much uncertainty and isolation right now, our human need for sharing stories is paramount. Last year, Jacquelyne “Jackie” Barra '20 and Stephen Peterson '20 experienced what it felt like to help kids have their stories told through their involvement with Literacy Connects’ Stories that Soar! High Program. As members of the Salpointe Theatre and Theatre Tech Department, they both expanded their creative skills by taking stories that were written by students from Saints Peter and Paul School and bringing them to life for an original production.

This year, the two Salpointe graduates have joined the Stories that Soar! professional cast as paid contracted artists to continue this mission-driven work in the community. 

Traditionally a live theatre program, the pandemic has shifted Stories that Soar! online - with stories now coming to life as digital shorts. The pandemic also impacted the program’s ability to hold its annual auditions for new cast members. Yet, based on their positive experience with the program through Salpointe, and with encouragement from their teacher, Ericka Quintero, they both took the initiative to get involved in Stories that Soar!

Artistic Director Sharon O’Brien couldn’t be happier to have them on board. She reports, “Stephen is taking on a critical new role as a Team Editor, supporting actors realize their visions through technology. And Jackie is jumping in with some fresh ideas, and a ton of enthusiasm, professionalism, and a host of necessary skills for this new format. My only disappointment is that I don’t get to see them in person since all of our work is remote.”

To see samples of their work, follow Stories that Soar! at www.LiteracyConnects.org.
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Salpointe Catholic High School

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