SHOWTIME
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BY KERRI REGAN
band of BROTHERS K I D S U N L I M I T E D R E I M AG I N E D ANY KID CAN be a star through Kids Unlimited – take it from the program’s new producing executive directors, who spent their childhood summers as “KU kids” and grew up to perform around the world. The summer performing arts program concluded after a 30-year run in 2017, but identical triplets and Redding natives Clayton, Kyle and Matthew Thurmond were so touched by their long-ago experience as participants that they decided to breathe new life into it. The nonprofit organization, now Kids Unlimited Institute of the Arts Summer Conservatory and Performance Encounter, is open to ages 7-20. The mission is to develop character and a sense of belonging through the performing arts. Under the theme “Kids Unlimited Reimagined,” the experience includes a fiveweek camp from June 15 to July 21, where students can join dance and singing teams and enroll in enrichment classes, all in preparation for four shows from July 22-25 at Redding School of the Arts. Classes are instructed by professional teachers and choreographers from Broadway, New York, Los Angeles, Las Vegas and Disney. The brothers are aiming for Broadway-caliber shows, with professional lights, sets and costumes. Numerous pricing options are offered, and fundraising, payment plans and sibling discounts are available. “We have been working around the clock to bring the KU magic back to the Redding community,” says Clayton, company manager and operations director. “KU has helped guide so many young people’s love for the visual and performing arts. The journey helps them build confidence, self-esteem, self-worth, respect and the opportunity to be proud of their accomplishments. KU is a positive, uplifting and magical organization where every student who participates is a star.” 4 continued on page 46
MARCH 2020
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