VAS students perform spring recital

 The evening of May 27, the VAS music studio, taught by Victoria Arriero performed their spring recital “Sing With Grace Broadway or Bust.” The young performers ranging in age from 4-18, presented songs from “Singing in the Rain,” “Peter Pan,” “Cinderella,” “Frozen,” “Mary Poppins” and more in both solo and ensemble performances. 

 The Victoria Arriero Studio mission is to provide exceptional education in the performing arts in Weiser and surrounding communities. For 12 years, Victoria Arriero has created a studio that provides an extensive education in singing, acting, and dancing, along with building confidence from within. 

 The motto at the studio is to not be the best but to “be your best.” Everyone has a place within the arts and the spotlight, and the VAS studio is ready to help each student find what makes them shine. 

 Two of the solo performers of the night were Hali Blanchard and Olivia Sanders; both were state competitors in the Idaho State Solo and Ensemble competition. Sanders finished eighth overall singing “Everywhere I Look”  and Blanchard finished 14th singing “Le Violette.” They each performed multiple times throughout the evening including special performances of the songs they sang for the state competition. 

 The spring recital is also a chance to recognize the graduating seniors – many of whom have been singing with the VAS studio for years. This years’ seniors were Whitney Turner, Esther Walker, Elaina Chandler, and Katelyn Prado-May. 

 The evening finished on an emotional but powerful note with the dedication of the last song to former studio member, Grace Goodwin. Goodwin passed away suddenly at the age of 15 from illness in December. Goodwin had been a part of the VAS family for several years and the studio misses her contribution and friendship greatly. The group dedicated the final all studio song “When You Believe” to Goodwin, adding a spotlight on the stage where she would be standing.  

 Arriero shared that although they miss Grace’s voice and friendship, they know her presence is always there. As she was the kind of person who embodied her name, Arriero reminded her students to “Sing With Grace” to honor and remember her and the friendships they shared. 

 The recital marks the end of the VAS season, but students can still hone their singing and performance skills throughout the summer through CAMP VAS. In this intensive 5 day camp students learn the fundamentals of singing, acting, and dancing on stage.  Students also learn how to make costumes and apply stage make-up, build sets, set lights, and be in a show orchestrated to highlight their age group. Students will also learn how to develop a character and perform it in front of a live audience.

 The summer camps are divided into three age groups. The first camp June 19-23, students ages 6-8 will work on “The Barnyard Moosical.” The second camp, July 10-14 is open to ages 9-11 and students will perform a junior abridged version of “Seussical the Musical.” Finally, Aug. 7-11, students ages 12-18 will present an adaptation of “Peter Pan Jr.” 

 Arriero has hosted several summer camps for students through previous years. Some of her first summer camp students are now going into their senior year of high school. Over the years she has had several of her students return as they have gotten older to be camp counselors for the younger ages. 

 The cost of the summer camp is $75 per student. You can find out more about the VAS summer camps  and register by visiting the studio website: https://vas.mymusicstaff.com.