Read what parents have to say about Playmakers

About Playmakers	Auditions	Rehearsals	Performances	Why We Love Playmakers

From a Playmakers Mother:

What a great, amazing experience! What a great production!  When the boys decided to audition for Grease, I thought we would have a few nice snapshots from the experience and that the kids would have a little fun.  I had no idea that it would completely change their worlds...for the better! My sons were able to shine, all on their own, and make their own friends...it was simply amazing to witness.

We've only lived in Cleveland for a year, so to see them both make such nice new friends, and to gain such confidence...PRICELESS! They both wore their sweatshirts to school today. I know they are so proud.

A million, trillion thank yous for making it all possible.

Jennifer

Dear Playmakers Friends, 

The Mandel JCC’s Playmakers Youth Theatre is special. We all know that because our children get to participate and we have the privilege of watching the process, from the drama of auditions through the pleasure of the production.

Playmakers is all about inclusion; it is all about community. Everyone gets to play, from the most talented kid to the child who loves participating at any level. All children who want a musical theater outlet can join in the fun.

Behind all the fun is Sheri Gross, an exceptional human being. Sheri nurtures the beauty in each child as she develops their budding talent; helps them find their voices; and encourages those who march to the beat of a different drummer. Sheri creates one community out of diversity: kids with special needs, Jewish kids from all denominations, and non-Jewish kids as well. Sheri unites diversity through a common love of singing, acting and dancing.

Our children have been Sheri’s stars for the last ten years, whether they were in the chorus or had a bigger role. We have been so thankful and appreciative that our children have had the opportunity to perform under Sheri’s guidance and love.

Sincerely,

Sue & Dan Borison

From a Playmakers Cast Member:

When I first came to Playmakers I was painfully shy and had awful separation anxiety. Playmakers couldn’t have been more perfect for me. Sheri pulled me out of my comfort zone right away, and helped to shape me into a confident, courageous performer.

From my very first day at Playmakers, I felt welcomed, nurtured, and loved. Soon, camp wasn’t enough, and I began participating in year-round productions, as well. Then, in 8th grade, I started to assistant direct. Since then, I’ve assistant directed all but one 2nd-9th-grade production. The chances I had to learn from Sheri were so meaningful. Not only did she guide my technical abilities, but also taught me skills in patience, leadership, organization, and shaped the person I wanted to be.

Over the years, Playmakers has taught me that, even when you least expect it, you can achieve great heights. That pulling your best effort into all you do is the greatest gift you can give. That a smile goes a long way. That a wet paper towel heals any ailment. That, no matter how impossible it may seem, things usually come together in the end. That it’s okay to be scared. That all people are people no matter what.

Playmakers has fostered my ability to lead and is the reason I am who I am today. It’s at camp in rehearsals, and on stage that I’ve made friendships that have been the most important to me.

Playmakers is a family, and it’s one I am honored, blessed, and proud to be a part of. I can’t express my gratitude to everyone involved in a program like nothing else. I could go on and on about my love for Playmakers if I could.

It seems only fitting that the last show I assistant directed at Playmakers, The Wizard of Oz, ends with a phrase that completely describes my feelings for Playmakers. “There’s no place like home.”