by Nikita Mendonca, NPAC staff
This week was extremely busy but very encouraging for the NPAC students, and especially for me as an NPAC graduate assistant. It was heartwarming to watch the NPAC students wave signs warning the community against the dangers of drinking under the influence on Thursday May 19 and Friday May 20.
The students cheerfully walked down Nanakuli Avenue from NHIS to Nanakuli Beach Park despite the unpredictable weather, and plans to attend graduations and various other events in the evening. It was amazing to see twenty plus students laughing cheerfully while rallying the community through song and dance from the side of the road. I'm filled with pride at the thought that the NPAC students are willing to give back to the community and are appreciative of the many efforts put forth to send them to the Edinburgh, Scotland Fringe Festival.
On another note, it's been confirmed! PBS is sending a crew to Edinburgh, Scotland to document our Fringe Festival adventure! I'm both excited and a bit apprehensive about this new development. First, I am ecstatic that the community will be able to see the NPAC students in action as they represent Hawaii. It is really important that we are able to share this special experience with the people who made it possible for so many students. Especially since a year ago, no one believed that performing in Scotland would ever become a reality. On the other hand, I was never comfortable on the other end of the camera, and the idea of myself and the rest of the NPAC members being filmed for the duration of the trip is a bit overwhelming and unexpected. The only saving grace is comfort in the knowledge that the students are busy rehearsing everyday for our Scotland performance. It's clear that the goal is to make Hawaii proud.
To end the busy week, NPAC members performed at the Arthritis Walk on Magic Island this Sunday, May 22. Although it began to rain before and during our performance, the NPAC members persevered and had a blast performing for everyone present. It was also nice to run into our friends, A Touch of Gold, who kindly recognized us during their performance. It's awesome to have professional performers as mentors and supporters of the NPAC.
It's been a busy week, but things will get busier for the NPAC. The NPAC is averaging two performances every week in addition to our regular rehearsal schedule. In addition, we've had more organizations requesting for us to perform as well as KGMB and KHNL offering to feature the NPAC on its news show. NPACs has a busy and productive road before it, and we are looking forward to what the future has to offer.
