Mark Flores

Learning to be a Professional

Being in Play Production has given me many priceless opportunities. The best experience of my life was going to Camp Bravo, which was made possible because of a scholarship Mr. Copley gave me. The chance to participate in The Young Artist Theatre Series, which has truly been invaluable, was also given to me. Because of my participation in Macbeth and Cancel Christmas, I've made a family with other actors and crewmembers. My desire to perform has transformed into a passion for performing thanks to the education and experiences I have earned through this prestigious program.

Camp Bravo is a performing arts camp. At this camp, a diverse set of about 125 young performing artists get together and share their passion for performing. Camp Bravo is a place of unity and friendship; no one is ever left out and everyone has a friend. I call Camp Bravo my "home on the mountain" because it is where I am loved and fully accepted for who I am. Though definite fun, Camp Bravo isn't just socializing and games; it is a place of education. Vance, the vocal director, taught us valuable methods to improve and maintain our vocal abilities. The choreographer, Corky, assigned us groups and had us learn a dance in three days to a song that he provided. We performed this in front of the entire camp with just three days practice. My weakness always has been dance. I informed Danny, our dance teacher of this, but she wouldn't allow me to just sit on the side and watch. She worked after class with me and helped me learn a dance so that I wouldn't make a fool out of myself at the 80's Dance. She put so much dedication into her job just like the rest of the staff and counselors. Everyone did their best to help others do their best. I learned audition do's and don'ts, what agents and directors are looking for, and many other priceless things.

My participation in the Young Artist Theatre Series (YATS) has been more than just talking about acting. Because of this opportunity, I've been able to see plays in famous theatres and meet some amazing people. The coordinators with YATS help us understand and interpret occurrences in the plays we watch. They are also willing to help us find agents, get head shots, and meet people who are in the theatre industry. I've learned costume and set knowledge, as well as lighting and sound knowledge. The most valuable thing I've learned from the YATS program is how to become part of the actors union. I am gaining skills that most actors don't earn until being in the business for quite some time. Thanks to YATS, I am more likely to avoid being conned by money making scams as well. This program is truly "the whole enchilada" as they say.

Being a part of Play Production has changed me. The discipline and knowledge I have obtained through participating in this program with Mr. Copley is priceless. Going to Camp Bravo made me a happier person. It honestly made me more confident in myself and it also taught me things that I must know to make it in this business. Being a part of the Young Artist Theatre Series has been an incredible stepping-stone for my career. I've been blessed with such great opportunities and I can't express my gratitude.