Letter to the editor: Theater taught skills that children will take with them

As my family prepares to move away from Sumter after spending two years here, I want to express my appreciation for the Sumter Little Theatre. As military kids, my teenagers are used to being the "new kids," having to find their place and their people with each new assignment. As they have gotten older, this has become more challenging.

However, SLT was a home from the moment they stepped in the doors. The staff and volunteers at SLT welcomed my children with open arms and made them part of the family. Not only did SLT provide a sense of belonging to my kids, but the theater challenged them and supported them whether they were in classes, summer camps or shows. I have seen tremendous growth in both my children. They are more confident, more organized, more responsible and more outgoing than two years ago, and those changes are because of the opportunities at Sumter Little Theatre.

Both are more willing to try new things, to step out of their comfort zones and to advocate for themselves - all skills learned at the theater. Our family has had many wonderful experiences in Sumter and at Shaw over the last two years, but the best part of this assignment was watching my children flourish because of all they have learned at Sumter Little Theatre.

LISA TUZEL

Sumter