Local girl gains confidence through summer camp

9-year-old Maryanne Hollinger joined Drama Kids of BCS three years ago. She recalls her initial memory with theatre.

“I stuttered every single time I spoke," Maryanne said.

More than 6 million Americans struggle with speech, language, and voice impairments according to the National Institute on Deafness and Communications Disorders.

Maryanne's parents noticed her speech impediment as a young child. Her mother, Kelli, says she had concerns.

"That the confidence was challenged if she was made fun of in the classroom was something we were really aware of," she said.

Maryanne says her stutter made her shy.

"I didn't really like to be around other people,” Marianne said. “But Drama Kids helped me to break out of my shell."

This week, Maryanne stars as Toto and the gatekeeper in the production of Wizard of Oz. Kelli says the camp strengthened what Maryanne learned in speech therapy.

“It reinforces many of the principles she was learning in class as well as give her a fun outlet,” Kelli said.

An outlet Maryanne loves.

“When I get up on stage, I can’t stop smiling,” Maryanne said.

Besides the smiles, Kelli says Maryanne is gaining more than she realizes.

"My child has the confidence to go in front of an audience, speak in front of her church, ask questions of adults," Kelli said. "Those are lifetime skills."

Maryanne plans on using those lifetime skills when she grows up. She hopes to be a veterinarian and also a drama class teacher.

Drama Kids of BCS offers summer camps and programs throughout the school year.