“It feels like we are a big family that cares for one another. Spending time with other parents at performances or talking to teachers while visiting the school is like connecting with old friends. It brings out the best in us.”
Carlos Claudio is the father of Izzie Claudio (Musical Theatre ‘22). This fall, Izzie will begin pursuing a BFA in Theater and Performance at Emerson College in Boston. Carlos will always remember the Musical Theatre Department’s performance of Into the Woods and Izzie’s senior recital.
“There are so many wonderful experiences, but I have two that stand out. The first one was last year’s spring musical Into the Woods. Because we were still in the grips of COVID, the performance was held outside in the parking lot of an industrial complex. Seats were limited. The students were masked and there was no stage and little to no props. Yet, amidst these difficulties, the students delivered a masterpiece. I believe the students captured the true essence of the art form. At one point, there was a temperature drop and it started raining, yet not one student broke character. It was simply amazing!
The second was Izzie’s recital. There are no words to describe the joy I felt experiencing her encapsulating her four years at The Academy with such beautiful songs and performances. It was the perfect artistic summary of her experience at The Academy.”
Carlos will also miss the Academy community.
“I love the people; the students, the faculty, the staff and everyone involved in creating this magical place. I love the connection the students have to their teachers. I’ve attended several senior recitals and when the students thank their teachers, you sense the nurturing and experience, and the bond that has been created between them. I love the energy and the vibe generated at the school. Even as a parent, I remember once, after having a particularly difficult week at work, coming to the school to see a performance and feeling all the difficulties melt away.”
Congratulations to Izzie and the Claudio Family!