Kudos
Feedback is a Gift
We appreciate all constructive feedback, and strive to grow into a better organization for it. However, we are only human, and can't help but feel proud of what we've accomplished when we receive feedback like the comments listed below.
If you have constructive feedback on your interactions with our organization (or just want to submit unsolicited praise), feel free to drop us an e-mail at [email protected] with the subject header "Feedback" or "You Rock!".
If you have constructive feedback on your interactions with our organization (or just want to submit unsolicited praise), feel free to drop us an e-mail at [email protected] with the subject header "Feedback" or "You Rock!".
–Hulafrog
We just wanted to thank the acting up team for all the dedication and time they committed and how welcome everyone made our son's, Finlay and Joseph feel. They have absolutely loved the experience and having lived in the USA for only 6 months this has really helped them feel at home here and develop many new friendships. Right from the experience of weekly Youth Chorus to the nightly rehearsals (and having to learn to smile on stage!) this has been a massively positive influence on them, which they have thoroughly enjoyed. The show was fantastically professional and really showed all the work put in by everyone in the acting up team to help the children achieve such a performance. Thanks again.
–The Tomlinson Family
My Daughter, Granddaughter and I attended the September 20, 2014 evening performance of Beauty and the Beast. I am still raving about the performance. I even went as far as to say we enjoyed it more than the Aronoff Performance of Beauty and the Beast. The singing, dancing, acting and stage presence were absolutely top notch. What a fantastic way to spend quality time with my granddaughter. Thank you for providing us with such a wonderful evening of music and dance. Best regards to the Cast and Crew members. Well Done!
–Denise
I want to say THANK YOU for the wonderful Acting Up experience that our family had and for working so hard on an incredible show. My daughter auditioned for Acting Up based on hearing such fantastic things about you all from a few friends who have been previously involved. Other than those words, we had no idea what to expect. We were absolutely delighted with the experience from day one to close. The passion of everyone involved is so evident and there are so many talented and caring individuals involved to bring this to fruition. We have told everyone about how wonderful the AU people are. And words can’t say how impressed we are with the end product of the show! It was amazing!
–Lisa Moore
To all of you involved with the production Children of Eden I would just like to send you a sincere "thank you" from our family. Livvy was a "Young Storyteller" and she had an amazing experience! We were completely new to the Acting Up family and everyone was so friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable. Everything was so organized and well run, amazing considering what a large production it was. The final product was outstanding! I could've watched the performance a thousand times, everyone was sooo fabulous! You have quite a few very talented young actors/actresses. Livvy has been in several other productions and you all are, by far, the most impressive! It is quite evident that everyone involved is very passionate about what they do....-
–The Stubenrauch Family
...I wanted to say [Drew has] had a blast with Acting Up. Thanks so much for organizing such a great activity and being part of his life. I think Acting Up’s influence will be a key to his success no matter what he chooses to do. Perhaps he’ll even work with kids in the theater someday and be as well-loved as all of you guys.
–Theresa Kovacs
It is apparent that the adults responsible for this group have a passion not only for theater, but for creating a nurturing, enjoyable learning and performance environment for young people; and for being as inclusive as possible in order to encourage not only professional development, but enjoyment and appreciation of the arts.
–Joodi Archer
Adjudicator
Cincinnati Association of Community Theatres
Hi Acting Up folks,
I just wanted to send an email to say a big THANK YOU for directing,
creating, producing, and organizing a great experience with "Honk." My daughter thoroughly enjoyed her first Acting Up experience.
I know all of you are volunteers, and I truly appreciate the hard work that everyone put into making this production a positive experience for every child. I really loved that you were able to include so many kids of so many different ages. I loved that the children had the opportunity to perform with live musicians. And I loved that you did not cut the slower parts of the show (as Dan mentioned at the parent meeting) - yep, it made the show longer, but each child had the chance to have their moment to shine. Honestly, not every show/company/producer respects that vision of inclusion, and so I sincerely thank you for your time and energy. It was great!
Thanks and happy summer.
–Amy Elliott
Our family and friends who attended the show [High School Musical] were blown away! The voices, the choreo, the subtle jokes, etc etc. An awesome job was done by all! Personally I was impressed by the attention to detail, particularly on the "lockers" set with the "Drama" bulletin board. Even way back in the audience it was easy to see and identify the playbills for Lion King, Cats, etc. The lobby displays were fantastic. Cindy & Lanette were ever so creative. And the playbill was exceptional!! Love how it so aptly reflected the high school theme. We Osbornes were very proud to be associated with the production....
–Becky Osborne
Thank you so much for what you do. Claire had a fantastic time and can't wait to try for next fall's Wizard of Oz.... What a terrific organization you've created -- thank you for all of your hard work, creativity and guidance for our kids. I am a big fan and looking forward to supporting Acitng Up in the future.
–Carolyn Hennessey
I have been wrestling with words in my head for the past three days now trying to give justice to the thoughts and feelings I want to convey to you all for the wonderful experience of Annie, Jr.. I have come to the conclusion that this is an impossible task. But I will give it my best shot and hope that you will feel the deep appreciation we have for each and every one of you.
I cannot thank you enough for all the support and encouragement you gave Leah and our family throughout this process. First, casting Leah as "Annie" was one of the most exciting moments in our household - we were total maniacs for days on end just trying to absorb the fact that Leah was going to be given this most incredible opportunity. There was random screaming, crying, jumping, rolling and general craziness going on at any given moment. (Actually, that lasted much longer than days - the crying is still continuing.)
Then when rehearsals started, it was just a dream come true for Leah. Leah loves to work and learn, and theater is her true love, so coming to rehearsals was always a joy for her. But more than that, all the kids were incredibly supportive and friendly to Leah. Having the lead role is a privilege, of course, but it can also be daunting and intimidating for an 11 year old, knowing that all are watching and observing all that you do. I don't know that I have ever been surrounded by such a wonderful, loving group of kids of all ages as this cast was. I can't say enough about the character of these young people who are obviously reflections of their wonderful parents.
And yet, somehow, the production team - you guys - exceeded all of these words already expressed. From costuming to hair, from acting tips to vocal coaching to dance and movement and choreography, from parent communication to parent support (and just plain parent fun!), from publicity to props and set construction - you guys were beyond compare.
Becca - I can't express how grateful I am to you for being a constant source of love and support to Leah. You demand the most from these kids, because you believe in them, and yet you maintain yourself as totally approachable and comfortable for them to be around. That, in itself, is a talent. And as for myself - I love being around you, because I can learn more from watching you in five minutes than most people can try to explain in a week. You are the best at what you do, and I can't even imagine Acting Up without you.
Dan - oh my gosh! First of all, I can't believe this was your first time directing. I didn't know that until just the other day. You are so amazing with the kids - of any age. You are caring and gentle and yet you are direct and precise and therefore get the results that you ask. The kids respect you greatly because you respect the kids. Leah felt a true connection to you, and I know that comes from the love and faith you exude in your every day living. We were all truly blessed to have you working, playing and just being with our children.
The performances were amazing. Everything came together and looked absolutely incredible. And that, of course, was due to all of the hard work, all of the time and commitment, and every contribution that each one of you made individually and collectively. I couldn't believe the level of professionalism that came from that stage at each performance. All in all, the experience of Annie, Jr. is one that will live in my family's hearts forever. It was truly a dream come true for Leah. And we have all of you to thank for changing each of our lives for the better.
With sincere appreciation and gratitude,
–Amy & John Hall
Thanks for posting the photo of Alyssa and Nicole [on the WATN? page to announce their 2010 Cappie Awards]. They were very funny after the awards ceremony. Both commented that they got their starts with Acting Up. It was very cool to watch. I know that Acting Up is very special to them. Please share that with the [Acting Up] Board. If they have any doubts about the impact they are having on young people, these two are clear examples.
–Art Gonthier
Tim was so excited to be given a line during the NYC scene. You may not realize this, but with that one line, Tim was actually given the greatest gift of all….self-esteem. With high self-esteem no matter what happens, you still know you are a good and capable person. I believe that is one gift Acting Up gives to each cast member through their positive environment. You really motivate the kids and raise their self-confidence. So thank you, Acting Up. We had fun!
–Sonja Hansen
I'm Lauren Kiley's Dad, and Sarah and I want to thank all of you for putting together such a great show. Lauren and her older sister, Megan, have been involved in many productions at Acting Up and Loveland Stage Company where all of you have played major roles, both on stage and off. You guys really know how to motivate the kids so they have a great time and the parents take comfort in your excellent organization skills. The talent level is incredible and the kids did great. Keep up the great work!
–Scott Kiley
Thank you again for joining our residents here at Heritagespring. As most of you know, music transcends many boundaries. For our residents who are hard of hearing, your smiles and facial expressions drew them into your performance. For our residents who have vision problems or who are completely blind, your strong voices touched them in a way that only music could. I had the opportunity to listen to their comments after the concert, and they genuinely enjoyed themselves. Your songs brought back so many memories for them. Best wishes on your up coming shows. You’ll always remember being a part of Annie! Keep up the great work!
–Rachel, Heritagespring Health Care
I would like to personally thank you for taking donations for the American Red Cross, Beaumont Chapter [during your production of Footloose]. After browsing your website, and seeing that you are a non-profit organization, relying on donations for your own needs, I was impressed even more by the selflessness that the cast of Footloose demonstrated in asking your patrons to donate to the Red Cross instead of your organization. Please be assured that we will continue to help our neighbors who have been so devastated by this storm [Hurricane Ike]. In great appreciation,
–Jo Lynn Leal
Administrative Assistant
American Red Cross, Beaumont Chapter
Hi there!! I just want to thank you ALL for a job VERY well done! It was a wonderful first experience for Kendall! She really enjoyed being a part of Acting Up! Thanks for all of your hard work and patience as you worked with all of the children! It was an amazing show because of you guys!!! YOU ARE AWESOME!! Thanks!
–Beth Heydt
"Alice" was Timmy's first experience with Acting Up and I must say it was MORE than we hoped for. Due to such a talented Acting Up board, I thought the show was SPECTACULAR. Our out-of-town guests loved the show Saturday and bought tickets at the window on Sunday to see it again! Thanks for all your hard work and I hope you were all able to treat yourselves to a nice steak after Strike. Best,
–Sonja Hansen
Thanks again to all for a fabulous experience for Emily with this show, she loved it! And please thank Brent for helping her so tremendously with her first lead part! Emily said he was just always so encouraging and just plain fun to work with. We can not rave enough to other people about your theater company and how wonderful your productions are and how fabulously you all work together - that sure doesn't happen everywhere! You took 80 kids, many very young, and gave a top notch performance to your audiences once again! Looking forward to another show of yours!
–Lorie Kissela
I wanted to send a belated thank you for allowing Kathryn and Grace to participate in such a wonderful experience the past couple of months. They enjoyed every minute of every practice. Alice in Wonderland was an amazing fun play. Acting Up is such a refreshing change from the cutthroat sports that are expected of our children at such young ages. Kathryn has especially blossomed in her two Acting Up experiences. At three years old, she was almost nonverbal. She has Apraxia (low muscle tone in her facial muscles) and was in speech for years. I had tears at every practice that I watched and I was a mess during the rehearsals and shows. Your organization has touched our family in many ways. It is so positive and uplifting.
–Kristin Degroft
We can not thank everyone at Acting Up enough for all that you did to make the production of Footloose such a fun and meaningful experience! Kennedy loved every rehearsal and every show! She was just captivated by the talented teens in the leading roles. We were so impressed by the respect and kindness that was demonstrated on so many levels. We were honored to be a part of such a fabulous production and to be included with such a truly beautiful group of people! Thank YOU for everything! We look forward to our future with Acting Up!
–Kennedy & Kelly Carstens
Our family would like to send an enormous “Thank You” to all the talented & obviously extremely patient Acting Up principal volunteers! Working with so many young people must be, no doubt about it, daunting & exhausting at times but you’ve done it yet again - another opening, another show! We appreciate your time & talent. Thank you for sharing so much of yourselves with my daughter. Ellie’s a better performer & person for the experience!
–Jackie Fisher
Thanks, Laura to all of your help and everyone associated with Acting Up. You all are an amazing group and should be commended on all your hours and hours of hard work. We thought Footloose was another fabulous performance!!!!
Thank you,
–Anne Marie Reid
–The Tomlinson Family
My Daughter, Granddaughter and I attended the September 20, 2014 evening performance of Beauty and the Beast. I am still raving about the performance. I even went as far as to say we enjoyed it more than the Aronoff Performance of Beauty and the Beast. The singing, dancing, acting and stage presence were absolutely top notch. What a fantastic way to spend quality time with my granddaughter. Thank you for providing us with such a wonderful evening of music and dance. Best regards to the Cast and Crew members. Well Done!
–Denise
I want to say THANK YOU for the wonderful Acting Up experience that our family had and for working so hard on an incredible show. My daughter auditioned for Acting Up based on hearing such fantastic things about you all from a few friends who have been previously involved. Other than those words, we had no idea what to expect. We were absolutely delighted with the experience from day one to close. The passion of everyone involved is so evident and there are so many talented and caring individuals involved to bring this to fruition. We have told everyone about how wonderful the AU people are. And words can’t say how impressed we are with the end product of the show! It was amazing!
–Lisa Moore
To all of you involved with the production Children of Eden I would just like to send you a sincere "thank you" from our family. Livvy was a "Young Storyteller" and she had an amazing experience! We were completely new to the Acting Up family and everyone was so friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable. Everything was so organized and well run, amazing considering what a large production it was. The final product was outstanding! I could've watched the performance a thousand times, everyone was sooo fabulous! You have quite a few very talented young actors/actresses. Livvy has been in several other productions and you all are, by far, the most impressive! It is quite evident that everyone involved is very passionate about what they do....-
–The Stubenrauch Family
...I wanted to say [Drew has] had a blast with Acting Up. Thanks so much for organizing such a great activity and being part of his life. I think Acting Up’s influence will be a key to his success no matter what he chooses to do. Perhaps he’ll even work with kids in the theater someday and be as well-loved as all of you guys.
–Theresa Kovacs
It is apparent that the adults responsible for this group have a passion not only for theater, but for creating a nurturing, enjoyable learning and performance environment for young people; and for being as inclusive as possible in order to encourage not only professional development, but enjoyment and appreciation of the arts.
–Joodi Archer
Adjudicator
Cincinnati Association of Community Theatres
Hi Acting Up folks,
I just wanted to send an email to say a big THANK YOU for directing,
creating, producing, and organizing a great experience with "Honk." My daughter thoroughly enjoyed her first Acting Up experience.
I know all of you are volunteers, and I truly appreciate the hard work that everyone put into making this production a positive experience for every child. I really loved that you were able to include so many kids of so many different ages. I loved that the children had the opportunity to perform with live musicians. And I loved that you did not cut the slower parts of the show (as Dan mentioned at the parent meeting) - yep, it made the show longer, but each child had the chance to have their moment to shine. Honestly, not every show/company/producer respects that vision of inclusion, and so I sincerely thank you for your time and energy. It was great!
Thanks and happy summer.
–Amy Elliott
Our family and friends who attended the show [High School Musical] were blown away! The voices, the choreo, the subtle jokes, etc etc. An awesome job was done by all! Personally I was impressed by the attention to detail, particularly on the "lockers" set with the "Drama" bulletin board. Even way back in the audience it was easy to see and identify the playbills for Lion King, Cats, etc. The lobby displays were fantastic. Cindy & Lanette were ever so creative. And the playbill was exceptional!! Love how it so aptly reflected the high school theme. We Osbornes were very proud to be associated with the production....
–Becky Osborne
Thank you so much for what you do. Claire had a fantastic time and can't wait to try for next fall's Wizard of Oz.... What a terrific organization you've created -- thank you for all of your hard work, creativity and guidance for our kids. I am a big fan and looking forward to supporting Acitng Up in the future.
–Carolyn Hennessey
I have been wrestling with words in my head for the past three days now trying to give justice to the thoughts and feelings I want to convey to you all for the wonderful experience of Annie, Jr.. I have come to the conclusion that this is an impossible task. But I will give it my best shot and hope that you will feel the deep appreciation we have for each and every one of you.
I cannot thank you enough for all the support and encouragement you gave Leah and our family throughout this process. First, casting Leah as "Annie" was one of the most exciting moments in our household - we were total maniacs for days on end just trying to absorb the fact that Leah was going to be given this most incredible opportunity. There was random screaming, crying, jumping, rolling and general craziness going on at any given moment. (Actually, that lasted much longer than days - the crying is still continuing.)
Then when rehearsals started, it was just a dream come true for Leah. Leah loves to work and learn, and theater is her true love, so coming to rehearsals was always a joy for her. But more than that, all the kids were incredibly supportive and friendly to Leah. Having the lead role is a privilege, of course, but it can also be daunting and intimidating for an 11 year old, knowing that all are watching and observing all that you do. I don't know that I have ever been surrounded by such a wonderful, loving group of kids of all ages as this cast was. I can't say enough about the character of these young people who are obviously reflections of their wonderful parents.
And yet, somehow, the production team - you guys - exceeded all of these words already expressed. From costuming to hair, from acting tips to vocal coaching to dance and movement and choreography, from parent communication to parent support (and just plain parent fun!), from publicity to props and set construction - you guys were beyond compare.
Becca - I can't express how grateful I am to you for being a constant source of love and support to Leah. You demand the most from these kids, because you believe in them, and yet you maintain yourself as totally approachable and comfortable for them to be around. That, in itself, is a talent. And as for myself - I love being around you, because I can learn more from watching you in five minutes than most people can try to explain in a week. You are the best at what you do, and I can't even imagine Acting Up without you.
Dan - oh my gosh! First of all, I can't believe this was your first time directing. I didn't know that until just the other day. You are so amazing with the kids - of any age. You are caring and gentle and yet you are direct and precise and therefore get the results that you ask. The kids respect you greatly because you respect the kids. Leah felt a true connection to you, and I know that comes from the love and faith you exude in your every day living. We were all truly blessed to have you working, playing and just being with our children.
The performances were amazing. Everything came together and looked absolutely incredible. And that, of course, was due to all of the hard work, all of the time and commitment, and every contribution that each one of you made individually and collectively. I couldn't believe the level of professionalism that came from that stage at each performance. All in all, the experience of Annie, Jr. is one that will live in my family's hearts forever. It was truly a dream come true for Leah. And we have all of you to thank for changing each of our lives for the better.
With sincere appreciation and gratitude,
–Amy & John Hall
Thanks for posting the photo of Alyssa and Nicole [on the WATN? page to announce their 2010 Cappie Awards]. They were very funny after the awards ceremony. Both commented that they got their starts with Acting Up. It was very cool to watch. I know that Acting Up is very special to them. Please share that with the [Acting Up] Board. If they have any doubts about the impact they are having on young people, these two are clear examples.
–Art Gonthier
Tim was so excited to be given a line during the NYC scene. You may not realize this, but with that one line, Tim was actually given the greatest gift of all….self-esteem. With high self-esteem no matter what happens, you still know you are a good and capable person. I believe that is one gift Acting Up gives to each cast member through their positive environment. You really motivate the kids and raise their self-confidence. So thank you, Acting Up. We had fun!
–Sonja Hansen
I'm Lauren Kiley's Dad, and Sarah and I want to thank all of you for putting together such a great show. Lauren and her older sister, Megan, have been involved in many productions at Acting Up and Loveland Stage Company where all of you have played major roles, both on stage and off. You guys really know how to motivate the kids so they have a great time and the parents take comfort in your excellent organization skills. The talent level is incredible and the kids did great. Keep up the great work!
–Scott Kiley
Thank you again for joining our residents here at Heritagespring. As most of you know, music transcends many boundaries. For our residents who are hard of hearing, your smiles and facial expressions drew them into your performance. For our residents who have vision problems or who are completely blind, your strong voices touched them in a way that only music could. I had the opportunity to listen to their comments after the concert, and they genuinely enjoyed themselves. Your songs brought back so many memories for them. Best wishes on your up coming shows. You’ll always remember being a part of Annie! Keep up the great work!
–Rachel, Heritagespring Health Care
I would like to personally thank you for taking donations for the American Red Cross, Beaumont Chapter [during your production of Footloose]. After browsing your website, and seeing that you are a non-profit organization, relying on donations for your own needs, I was impressed even more by the selflessness that the cast of Footloose demonstrated in asking your patrons to donate to the Red Cross instead of your organization. Please be assured that we will continue to help our neighbors who have been so devastated by this storm [Hurricane Ike]. In great appreciation,
–Jo Lynn Leal
Administrative Assistant
American Red Cross, Beaumont Chapter
Hi there!! I just want to thank you ALL for a job VERY well done! It was a wonderful first experience for Kendall! She really enjoyed being a part of Acting Up! Thanks for all of your hard work and patience as you worked with all of the children! It was an amazing show because of you guys!!! YOU ARE AWESOME!! Thanks!
–Beth Heydt
"Alice" was Timmy's first experience with Acting Up and I must say it was MORE than we hoped for. Due to such a talented Acting Up board, I thought the show was SPECTACULAR. Our out-of-town guests loved the show Saturday and bought tickets at the window on Sunday to see it again! Thanks for all your hard work and I hope you were all able to treat yourselves to a nice steak after Strike. Best,
–Sonja Hansen
Thanks again to all for a fabulous experience for Emily with this show, she loved it! And please thank Brent for helping her so tremendously with her first lead part! Emily said he was just always so encouraging and just plain fun to work with. We can not rave enough to other people about your theater company and how wonderful your productions are and how fabulously you all work together - that sure doesn't happen everywhere! You took 80 kids, many very young, and gave a top notch performance to your audiences once again! Looking forward to another show of yours!
–Lorie Kissela
I wanted to send a belated thank you for allowing Kathryn and Grace to participate in such a wonderful experience the past couple of months. They enjoyed every minute of every practice. Alice in Wonderland was an amazing fun play. Acting Up is such a refreshing change from the cutthroat sports that are expected of our children at such young ages. Kathryn has especially blossomed in her two Acting Up experiences. At three years old, she was almost nonverbal. She has Apraxia (low muscle tone in her facial muscles) and was in speech for years. I had tears at every practice that I watched and I was a mess during the rehearsals and shows. Your organization has touched our family in many ways. It is so positive and uplifting.
–Kristin Degroft
We can not thank everyone at Acting Up enough for all that you did to make the production of Footloose such a fun and meaningful experience! Kennedy loved every rehearsal and every show! She was just captivated by the talented teens in the leading roles. We were so impressed by the respect and kindness that was demonstrated on so many levels. We were honored to be a part of such a fabulous production and to be included with such a truly beautiful group of people! Thank YOU for everything! We look forward to our future with Acting Up!
–Kennedy & Kelly Carstens
Our family would like to send an enormous “Thank You” to all the talented & obviously extremely patient Acting Up principal volunteers! Working with so many young people must be, no doubt about it, daunting & exhausting at times but you’ve done it yet again - another opening, another show! We appreciate your time & talent. Thank you for sharing so much of yourselves with my daughter. Ellie’s a better performer & person for the experience!
–Jackie Fisher
Thanks, Laura to all of your help and everyone associated with Acting Up. You all are an amazing group and should be commended on all your hours and hours of hard work. We thought Footloose was another fabulous performance!!!!
Thank you,
–Anne Marie Reid