My troupe of middle school jugglers from Windham Christian Academy, LOL, had their first gig of the new school year today at the Barron Center nursing home. Ten kids (Should have been 11, but Jordan suffered a severe sprain of her ankle the day before) between the ages of 12 and 14 loaded up the school van, and with me at the wheel, headed into Portland first thing this morning.  We arrived in plenty of time to set up with minimal stress and still have plenty of time for our jugglers and tumblers to warm up.  As is normal at nursing homes, the staff began bringing in residents early, and one lady was fascinated with the team as they prepared for the show.  As it turns out, the lady, Victoria, had studied at the Celebration Barn Theatre under world renowned mime Tony Montanero.  We actually knew some of the same performers, though I admit she knows them better than I.  

As for the show, LOL did very well for being only four weeks into the year.  A huge benefit this year is that eight f eleven students were in LOL last year as 7th graders so they really set the tone for the three new kids.  Aidan especially did a great job helping the rookies to learn the ropes of show day.  Consequentially, newbies had a good first show.  Tanner was expressive and funny as the older son in Prodigal Juggler, Abbie did remarkably well filling in for Jordan in I Want to Know What Love Is, as well as her shackle escape, and Zech handled a popped balloon sword like a pro as he played David in David and Goliath.

 As usual, the highlight of the morning was when the kids visited with the residents after the show.  One resident is actually the father in law of another teacher from WCA.  Knowing that he would be there our class made cards specifically for him, and he appreciated it very much.  All the residents were given devotional magazines and home made bracelets as well. So we're off to a good start, and we'll only progress rapidly with the team we have this year.