Last week, the Dunlevy Milbank Center’s art program staged a classic, “The Wiz.” Community members packed the center’s gymnasium to watch our youth put on a fun-filled performance. The center’s youth, ranging from ages 5-14, rehearsed for five weeks before they debuted their hard work.

The night was a true testament to Children’s Aid’s commitment to providing our youth with an opportunity to express themselves in a safe, engaging, and creative environment. The center’s staff said the night was also an opportunity for students to come out of their shell.

“The arts are important mostly for those kids who need an outlet,” said Casper Lassiter, Milbank’s longtime director, mentioning two kids who surprised the staff. “On normal days, the kids are usually quiet and to themselves, but on this day, they shocked all of us. It was a really special moment.”

The performance was directed by Omari Wiles and Craig Washington, the center’s art specialists, who put everything together.