Night of Stars

To the Editor,

My family attended our first Night of Stars event three years ago. A friend had encouraged me to audition, but it was requisite for me that at least one of my kids perform alongside me, and I couldn’t convince any of them.

As a compromise, we all went to check out the event and consider it for another year. It is not an understatement to say that by the end of the show, we were all blown away.  The talent in our district is truly remarkable, and it was such a fun night for all of us to see some friends get up on stage. 

Best of all, our kids couldn’t stop talking about performing in the next one, and I am now set to perform with a group of family and friends for our second consecutive Night of Stars.

Despite having a 5th grader, it has taken us several years to understand both how valuable the event is, but also the organization that is financed by the event proceeds, The Spaulding Education Fund.  This fund is a unique community entity that awards grants for education initiatives in our schools. It is driven solely by volunteer energy and donations.  If the money runs out, the programs it has benefitted for so long do as well.

We are blessed to live in a district that benefits from programs like this, but there are people behind them that are working hard in their limited free time, to keep them thriving.

Night of Stars is something far more than an excuse to funnel money into Spaulding.  It is a special night that gives kids (and adults) a chance to share their gifts, passions, and hard work, and truly shine on a big stage in front of their friends, family, and community.  I wish I had something like this growing up. I started a band when I was thirteen and it was a hard grind finding opportunities to play in front of people.  It took a long time to build confidence and to foster the belief in myself that it was a serious endeavor that was worth the effort of overcoming the fear and nerves.

This event is such an incredible way to give these kids who have the courage to perform, the chance to get on stage and let it all out.  To have the support of the community behind them, the applause, the cheers…it’s a feeling that a person never forgets.  I am so inspired by the bravery and confidence these performers show.

Seeing the transformation of their nervous energy turn into a fervid performance in front our eyes is exhilarating.  This event is a highlight of the year for our family, whether we are performing or not.  I encourage you all to help fill every seat in the auditorium on November 14th.

Jay DiBiasio

Manchester