Leyalanny and Aurora Mata
Photo Credit: Josh Milgrim (from the production of All Shook Up)
Photo Credit: Michael Siskin (from Curtains Up)
Photo Credit: Josh Milgrim (from the production of All Shook Up)
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I am so very grateful to HEARTS for their continued support in artistic and theatrical programs in Port Washington. When my daughter and I moved to Port she did not have any friends or know anyone at all. I was so busy transitioning in my career and adjusting to a new town, we felt very isolated.
Since Aurora had always loved theatre and music, I thought the "Curtains Up" program would be a great chance for her to meet new friends and have fun. Not only did she make incredible friends, which she still has to this day, but her love and passion for musical theatre really thrived. The program gave her a chance to begin to develop her talent and be surrounded by children her age who also have the same passion for performance. Also, at the time, I would not have been able to afford an afterschool program of that caliber in the area. So, it was such a blessing to have this opportunity in our school district. Aurora was able to be in Curtains Up for two years. Aurora found a community of children where she feels she belongs, from spontaneously breaking out into Broadway melodies at sleepovers to spending late nights reading lines together over FaceTime. Even for those kids who may not want to pursue theatre full time, just being in the program helps with confidence, public speaking, and gives them an opportunity to be part of a fun group of new friends. Aurora has progressed in her acting/singing career, signed on with talent agencies, and recently won medals in both youth singing and acting competitions throughout the United States. She continues to volunteer at Curtains Up as a High Schooler, because she loves the program and amazing teachers who run it. I have also been so lucky to meet board and volunteer members of the HEARTS organization that have now become my dear friends and helped me feel welcome in the community. I am proud of the HEARTS organization mission to enrich the Arts of Port Washington and am so happy to be a volunteer. It is remarkable to see how HEARTS is able to provide such great support for children in our community. I see the impact HEARTS programming has had on my own daughter, her friends, and the community. — Leyalanny Mata |
Help make a difference in Port Washington!
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As we near the end of 2022, we sincerely hope you will consider a tax-deductible donation to HEARTS to make an impact through the arts in our community today and in the future.
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