Eighth grade student, Addison Wynkoop, is an amazing young woman with a gift for singing. She had a lead role in the BAMS Drama performance of the Newsies last spring and she is often entering into contests to challenge and grow her ability to sing and perform. Recently, Addy entered the Hammerstein International Youth Solo Contest and won! By winning, Addy was given a 1:1 session with a Broadway Teaching Artist, a professional recording of her singing the song “I Cain’t Say No” from Oklahoma, and the opportunity to attend the benefit gala that would also include many Broadway stars.
I asked Addy about her experience at the gala, and this is what she had to say:
“It was an amazing experience! I met a bunch of fun and cool people, as well as getting the opportunity to experience performing with some Broadway stars. Some people I met were Hugh Panero, Justin Guarini, and Christy Altomare. Hugh played Phantom in Phantom of the Opera on Broadway, and Sweeny in Sweeny Todd, as well as many other wonderful roles. He was a great guy, and super enjoyable to be around. As well as a spectacular singer. Justin Guarini is an entertainer, speaker, and author. He is most known for getting runner-up on American Idol. He was an amazing singer/performer and was very friendly and nice. Christy Altomare was Anya in Anastasia on Broadway. She is incredible, and an excellent actress and entertainer. I got a little bit of time to talk to each of them, and they were all wonderful and extremely talented. I am so grateful that I got the experience to meet each one of them individually.
Other than meeting some new amazing people, I got the opportunity to sing "I Cain't Say No," from Oklahoma. This is one of my favorite songs and was also the song I took first place with at NATS (National Association of Teachers of Singing.) Even though I do have tons of experience with this song, it's always fun to sing at new events and have chances like these. One of my favorite parts of being a performer is seeing the look on people's faces when I sing. It's not only heartwarming but also awesome to see just how people can make you feel more confident in yourself.”
Congratulations, Addy on such an amazing performance and evening! It is wonderful to know that these situations exist and that it has given you more of a chance to continue to do what you love. Bellefonte Area School District is so very proud of you!
Photos courtesy of Jackie Wynkoop.