Growing up, it took me a long time to find my voice. I was the child you'd see eating lunch by herself and sticking her nose in a book while the other children were playing tag and four square (something I still prefer to do today). I could never fit in with anyone, no matter how hard I tried. Then came the start of high school, where I took a huge plunge into the world of theatre--- and fell in love.

My freshman year of high school, I was absolutely terrified to step foot into the school. I had previously been in Catholic school for five years, and was worried that my former friends wouldn't recognize me or, worse, wouldn't want to be my friend again. Luckily I was wrong, and my best friend from elementary school remained my best friend for the next four years. Despite this, I had very few friends. It felt like grade school all over again, and I felt like I would never fit in. My friend, wanting to help, told me about auditions for a murder mystery production that her friend was co-directing with a teacher, and suggested I audition with her. Although I said I'd think about it, I was nervous and told myself I wasn't going to step onto the stage.

My mother is the person who changed my mind. I tell her everything. When I brought up the auditions, she asked me right away if I was going to go. I remember telling her that I felt too self-conscious and wouldn't be trying out. She wasn't happy to hear that at all. After getting a long speech about trying new things and stepping out of my comfort zone, I finally gave in and said I'd go. I auditioned, and ended up with a lead role (the murderer). This was the largest confidence boost I'd ever experienced.

Since that day, I have made a home on the stage and among the drama community at my high school. It became a sort of dysfunctional family. The number of inside jokes we share is as abundant as it is hilarious. We laugh together, and we cry together. The social aspect is great, and the strict schedule helps with academics. Theatre is also a way to express yourself freely. Despite my inability to fit in when I was younger, and the lack of confidence that resulted, onstage I could forget all about worries. I was able to play a strong, egotistical character without even blinking an eye. I've played a murderer, an alcoholic doctor, a ladies' man (all three of the aforementioned characters were male), a typical nerdy girl and a court jester. My personality can really shine through on the stage.

Being onstage isn't the only great thing about theatre; some of the best things happen offstage. During high school, I've helped design and paint our sets, and I've also been the assistant stage manager in several productions, as well as a stage hand. Backstage work is just as important as what happens onstage. Without costume designers, no period pieces would look accurate. Without set builders, you'd see an empty stage. With no orchestra or vocal coaches, musicals would be horribly lackluster. Set changes would be a nightmare if crew members weren't there to help.

Theatre is a great way to express yourself, and it is a shame that many high schools get rid of the arts program first if they run out of funding. While academics are important, and sports seem to be more popular than acting, it is important to have a wide array of options from which students can choose. If my high school did not have the drama department, I don't think I would be the same person I am today.