GRoW @ The Wallis is interested in both the artistic growth and the personal development of those we serve. We are very proud to see students gain new skills and insights in the arts. But we are just as happy when people become more self-assured and more empathetic about those around them. No student embodies these goals better than Anna Polin, an 8th grade student from Beverly Vista School here in Beverly Hills.
Anna’s first involvement at The Wallis was as a Student Arts Reporter. She continues in that program, which affords her a chance to see performances here throughout our season and write reviews for our website. Anna is a regular in our theaters, with her pen and notepad in hand. She was especially moved after seeing a performance by The Miracle Project, a performing arts program we host for young people with autism and all abilities. The original musical she saw inspired her to participate as a volunteer “co-actor” in the summer musical theater camp presented by The Miracle Project at The Wallis. In spending time with young people with autism, she learned of the stress and anxiety her peers face in certain situations. This inspired her to develop an experiment with soothing aromas as part of her school science project. Anna has now come full circle and will appear as a member of the cast when we present the next original musical – “185 Wilshire: A Love Story” – this Spring in the Lovelace Studio Theater. Anna continues to inspire us in our mission to develop a community of talented and caring artists.