English Enrichment students in grades 9-12 were given an amazing
opportunity to work with a true international professional in the field of
entertainment. Former CC Alum, Mark
Swanhart, invited Mrs. Heather Niebauer and this group of students to York, PA
where they were able to observe as he directed the America’s Got Talent tour.
Based on the popular NBC TV show, Mark took the raw talent of several of the
performers who made the semi-final round and created a visually appealing show
that will travel the country.
Students were able to view what the people in the business call a
“tech” rehearsal, which consisted of working out setting, video, timing, sound,
and lighting while each of the cast members performed live. Along with the fun
of meeting and watching the individual performers, students got to see all the
technicians hard at work behind the scenes. The students were literally
immersed in the rehearsal because they had the good fortune of sitting right
alongside the technicians, acting as the studio audience. Mark would
periodically explain to the students exactly what he or another technician was
doing. After lunch, Mark coordinated a question and answer session for the CC
group. Many students had questions that concerned the business and career
opportunities of his work, along with personal questions for Mark regarding his
own career path. The overall message was one of setting goals, pursuing dreams,
and respecting those you meet along the way.
