In Christ and In Character

Nov 18

One Student's View of Worship through Storytelling

Seven years ago, a young lady who loved to dance took a chance and signed up for something she wasn’t so sure she would like. She heard there might be dancing involved, which gave her some confidence, but the activity, a drama camp, also gave her reason to pause. For most people, standing in front of a crowd and speaking is something they fear more than death, so her reservations were understandable. Yet, her friends all spoke of how much fun the experience would be, so she put her faith in their recommendations and moved ahead.

At the camp’s first meeting, that young lady, Becca Navarre, observed everything that was happening around her. People were reconnecting with one another, hugging one another like you would a long-lost relative, and she saw how much joy people felt as they simply shared space in the same room. Something inside her said, “This is good.”

The leader of the club, Mrs. Amy Slupe, was captivating to Becca. Amy’s excitement for the experience just couldn’t be bridled. It was clear she could not wait for the club to gather and she overflowed with joy as she began to guide the group. Through the camp, Becca saw how the creative energy of the group inspired and activated one another, and she observed quiet and reserved students come alive in character. Soon, it was clear dancing wasn’t the only thing giving her confidence. She was also inspired by the investment and encouragement of many new friends teaching her how to tell stories by living them on stage.

After the camp’s conclusion, she couldn’t wait until the opportunity came to use her new skills. Sure, she’d organized the annual Christmas play in her parents’ home each year since she was young, but with a brother who – like most brothers – wouldn’t be caught dead dancing with their sisters, that play often felt more like a chore than a deeply moving experience. Her first real opportunity came in the winter of her sixth-grade year when a casting call was made for the upcoming show, Oliver.

Being a part of a large production like Oliver was magical for Becca. It was also overwhelming sometimes. So much was happening all around her… costumes, lines, makeup, sets, homework, late nights, and meals on the run… but it was thrilling, too. The time flew by and the final curtain fell, but she was hooked.

The next year, Becca earned a part in another show, Once Upon a Mattress. It was then when she felt her friendships turned into family. In particular, a friendship with a classmate and veteran stage actor, Payton Sharpe began to take shape. “I gained a lot of confidence in my acting because of his encouragement,” Becca shared. Becca and Payton would work together on stage many more times over the next few years and are preparing for the performances of A Wrinkle in Time, happening this Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.

We asked Becca about A Wrinkle in Time and what she appreciates about the story. “The show is funny and also can be intense. It emphasizes Christ’s love. It feels like evil has taken over the world, but the main character learns her worth and value along the way. She learns that love conquers evil,” Becca said.

Becca grew up in a Christian home and has always known the importance of a relationship with Christ. That relationship has grown more and more important to her as she’s aged. She credits her pastor for shepherding her growth in Christ. “He encourages me daily to spend time with God, research, and journal,” shared Becca. “I discuss my questions with him.” The pastor in her life is also her father, Jon. “Yeah, he’s my dad, but my pastor, too.”

Looking back over her career as a Christian actor on stage, Becca shared that she sees it as an opportunity to worship Christ through sharing powerful stories… a lot like the Bible does. “There is something so powerful about praising the Lord [on stage]. Being an actor, I have learned about God’s faithfulness because of the lessons in truth found in the stories.”

Becca has one of the primary roles in A Wrinkle in Time, Mrs. Whatsit. She said the show is filled with humor and thrills that should excite the entire family. She said, “It is great for people of all ages! Even though there are some intense parts, the whole family will love it. The cast has done amazing work. It would mean so much if people came and enjoyed themselves. You won’t regret it!”

To see Becca, Payton, director Mrs. Slupe, and the entire Lenawee Christian School drama team as they perform this exciting and powerful story, join us this Thursday, Friday, and Saturday for A Wrinkle in Time. Purchase your tickets online or at the door. For tickets and showtimes, visit Lenawee.org/wrinkle.