SACO — Devin McGrath-Conwell recalls sitting in a meeting his freshman year as class president trying to brainstorm fundraising ideas with students and faculty advisors.
That’s when “TA’s Got Talent” ”“ an annual talent show, going on its fourth year ”“ was born.
“It was a crazy idea that no one thought we’d pull off,” said event organizer and co-host McGrath-Conwell, now 18 and a senior.
Not only did he and his classmates pull it off, but the show has gotten bigger every year.
McGrath-Conwell, who’s been class president all four years of his high school career, recalls the first year.
“We had no idea what we were doing freshman year,” he said.
His mother helped him design posters, and he said it was “a family affair” getting the posters completed and put up. Calls were made and emails sent, a co-host for the show was found as well as a panel of judges comprised of teachers and community members, and everything came together.
“I was terrified the first night we did it,” he said.
In three years, the show has raised about $3,000 for the Class of 2014, and has been so successful that the class does not have to do any other fundraisers.
“I’ve seen my baby grow … but it’s kind of scary because where do I go from here?” said McGrath-Conwell.
He said the experience has given him more confidence, and he’s learned a lot. Of note, he’s learned that not everybody who signs up to do something will fulfill their commitment. He’s also learned the importance of delegating tasks, so instead of making posters at his kitchen table, last year, the posters were done as a project for a graphic arts class.
And while the show has made money, McGrath-Conwell said that’s not the only reward; it’s also rewarding to see someone who’s nervous go on stage, perform and “absolutely blow it out of the park” ”“ to applause and smiles.
The talent show will be held on March 13 this year at 6:30 p.m. at the Harry P. Garland auditorium on the Thornton campus. Tickets are $4.
McGrath-Conwell said in addition to co-hosting the event, he will be part of a musical performance, playing piano.
McGrath-Conwell said the Class of 2016 has expressed interest in taking over the talent show after this year, and he hopes it will continue.
— Staff Writer Liz Gotthelf can be contacted at 282-1535, ext. 325 or egotthelf@journaltribune.com.
Comments are not available on this story.
Send questions/comments to the editors.
