The Epoch Times Loves Smash

Arts Supporter Award Winner: Providing Children with Their Own Broadway Show

Smash Theatre School was awarded Supporter of the Arts Business of the Year for its commitment to producing exciting musical theatre performances and developing the next generation of talent through its comprehensive academy.

The school's founder and instructor Sheila Reader said in her acceptance speech that she was very happy to see the students' growth. "Some children don't have their own favorite sports or friends, but they have found their place in Smash. They walk onto the stage and we tell them from the side of the stage, 'You did it', so they laugh, hug each other, and cheer, 'I did it'."

Reader, who is busy organizing a summer camp for children aged 6 to 9 and 10-13, was interviewed by an Epoch Times reporter on July 3. She said that she was influenced by her father to like musicals and performances. She founded Smash Drama School 10 years ago out of her love for drama, musicals and children.

She said she named the school "Smash" because she wanted to provide children with an opportunity similar to a "Broadway show." "When you have a hit show on Broadway, it's called a smash hit. If you come to (our) school, you can be part of a hit musical. I want to provide children with their own Broadway show." "When I can create a musical with the children, it feels like a Broadway show to me."

Reader said that some of her students have gone on to further their studies in the arts at university, while others have left the arts field, but they all stay in touch and some have become her closest friends. "I have these amazing kids in my life who will run up to me and hug me and tell me that this (acting) is the best thing they have ever done and how lucky they feel. I am truly grateful to them because they enrich me and give me so much joy!"

Reader, who likes classical drama, said that many students want to perform classical dramas. She plans to perform a Shakespeare play or other classical dramas in the next two years. "Classical drama is something that all performers should learn and participate in, because there is nothing better than it. I want to share it with students."

Editor-in-charge: Li Ying