LITLE RIVER: REFLECTIONS FROM A YOUNGER RESIDENT
My name is Nate Diemer. I am twelve years old and have lived in Campbell River my whole life. I am thankful to live here because I have been able to be involved with the arts community since I was three years old. I enjoy dancing, singing, playing instruments, and acting, and I usually do at least one of these around our house daily, so being part of the arts community brings me joy.
Starting my dance journey
I first got involved in the arts through dance. I was watching my older sister at her dance class when her teacher, Kathy Mascia from Kathy Mascia School of Dance, noticed that I was following along with the dance routine. After the class, Kathy asked my mom if I would also be interested in lessons. I was excited when Mom said yes, because I’d be able to join my own class and get my own costume. Our recital piece was called Nate and the Chicks, and the costumes were little chicks and a rooster. Guess who was the rooster! I really enjoyed the recitals, and especially seeing everyone else’s dance pieces. Although I sometimes wished there was another boy in the group, growing up with three older sisters helped me feel comfortable being the only boy in class. Besides recitals, we also had opportunities to take dance exams. I enjoyed doing the exams, but I liked the recitals better.
Learning piano through individual and group lessons
My second opportunity to be involved in the arts was through piano lessons with Donna Robertson. I had individual lessons, which were a fun way to learn about the piano and my pieces, and I also had group lessons. These were cool because I got to hear other kids play, and I had the chance to play for them. I also had opportunities to be part of Music Week, where my fellow musicians and I got to play for an adjudicator. Sometimes playing for others is a little nerve-wracking, but it is also satisfying, especially when you hit all the right notes!
Finding fun in musical theatre
The third opportunity that I have had to be involved in the arts is through musical theatre. I have really enjoyed being part of Raincoast Musical Theatre. I love performing and making people laugh. Sometimes it’s tricky being the only boy in the older class, but I have made great friends in theatre. I hope to encourage more boys to join, because it is so much fun being someone other than yourself for a while. My favourite role so far has been Sven in the musical Frozen. I have also played the roles of Prince Eric in the musical The Little Mermaid and Prince Albert in the musical Cinderella and The Return of the Glass Slipper. As part of my musical training I have also enjoyed voice lessons with Kristy Miller and Amy Lelliott. Last month I was able to participate in the North Island Festival of the Performing Arts. I have also started playing the ukulele.
A fourth opportunity I had to be involved in the arts was through Summer Theatre Camp at the Tidemark. This camp was a great two-week program. We learned about designing costumes and props, writing a script, and running lighting and sound. My fellow campers and I also played games that taught us how to project our voices and do improv. At the end of two weeks, we presented our play to our family and friends. I was sad last year when the program didn’t run.
Currently, I am also involved in the arts through my church’s youth and leadership program. I enjoy helping lead worship during our youth program. I sing and sometimes play the piano. It’s great to be singing with my friends. I have also been able to use my drama training when teaching lessons to kids at Island Adventure Camp, where I also get to lead in games. It’s so much fun using humour and music to connect to people.
Life beyond the stage in Campbell River
I love living in Campbell River and being involved in the arts here. When I’m not singing, dancing, playing an instrument, or acting, you’ll probably find me at the Vancouver Island Public Library picking out a book or playing Dungeons & Dragons. I feel very blessed to have the chance of growing up in Campbell River.
