Erik Reed introduced our speaker, Jackie Mustakas.

Jackie is from Stirling Ontaro. She became passionate about theatre in her teens and has spent 32years in the business. It got rid of her shyness. She has been in many of the Drayton Theatre productions.

She has volunteered across Ontario, teaching drama workshops. DEYA (Drayton Entertainment Youth Academy) began as an idea during the restrictions of Covid. Being involved in theatre ( arts and culture) can give many things to young people. It builds confidence, teaches life skills, and it is a safe place to grow. DEYA involves students in the wardrobe crew, stage operation and lighting. Some students find a career in the theatre business. She estimates 4000 students / year and involved in some way. A final theatre production is held at the Hamilton Theatre in Cambridge. Due to budget restrictions, high school students get less exposure to art, music and theatre in their schools. Jackie's project attempts to counter this trend.

She was thanked by the editor.  Todd had a joke about not making a racket when playing pickle ball.  Paul T. Cody is on the hustings next week for a command performance. Have a great week.