Michael Sackett is CEO of INSPIRE and sincerely believes in the transformative power of the arts, especially in the young. Participating in a youth production or just learning about the craft, he argues, helps kids build confidence, new friendships, teamwork, and the value of hard work. Yet Michael insists it can do even more, he says, 'I like to think of the performing arts as a preventative therapy of sorts. I think that every kid should be involved in the arts in some way. Studies have shown over and over again that performing arts stimulates the brain and helps growth in every area of development.'
INSPIRE has two parts to it, the Entertainment Company does instruction, competition, and performance, while the Theatre Company puts out high quality family friendly productions. They have done shows like The Little Mermaid Jr., Seussical Jr., and more. Their upcoming season will continue to grow with productions like Matilda Jr. expected in November. For these musical productions, Michael says about 100 kids audition. Ultimately 50 are chosen and they rehearse for about 3 1/2 months before the final four shows play to an audience.
Many of the students who audition come out of the INSPIRE community but the reputation of their productions has clearly grown and talent has been coming from all over. Michael credits the 'gifted' director, Shannon Rogers, and her staff for 'growing the program to what it is today'. The interest and even growing demand for theatre in the East Valley has encouraged Michael and INSPIRE to be a continuing source for kids and the arts. They offer summer camps for all ages and abilities. A theater camp runs for two weeks, music theater, tumbling and cheer, dance, and advanced camps like ballet intensives and vocal performance camps too.
Michael says the positive impact on young people was further highlighted back when he was a college student and was on tour with the Young Ambassadors in China and South Korea. He describes sitting with a little girl at an orphanage, saying that he 'kept thinking... this girl was dropped off by her family at birth... and she was so happy when we were there performing for her and her friends. I couldn't help but want to create something where thousands of students would have experiences like that and be able to share their talents for good. And also help them recognize that they have been so blessed just by being able to take classes in the performing arts.'