AGE CLARI COURAGE
and it was an epic tribute to her 30 + years of meaningful service to students of the arts . Her “ salt and light ” ethos as an educator has had a lasting impact beyond arts in the upper school — teaching students to engage culture , finding the narrative of the gospel in every storyline .
“ This show is personally important to me because of what it says : to stand up for what is right and make a difference in this world . We talk a lot to our arts students — indeed , it is in our purpose statement — about being salt and light in the culture . So , I love that the last show I did was literally about a collection of kids in 1899 who did just that . And , I love that this truth was knit into the hearts of cast and crew through the notes , lines , dance steps , and production work . I believe they are destined to make a difference , that they have a call and a purpose that will affect lives and glorify God . From the patron response , I think they did exactly that for the over 2,000 audience members who experienced Newsies .” says Flautt .
“ She is one of the most encouraging and kind people I ’ ve ever met . She ’ s brought me out of my shell and showed me things I could do that I would have never discovered about myself had I not done theatre . It ’ s definitely been a highlight of my time at CPA ,” shares Stevens .
In her Director ’ s Notes , Flautt shares her insight into the power of the arts in our lives :
“ For me , the last thirty years ’ work with students has been prominently woven with these threads . First , that our students know the truth —
At times , they will have to stand up for a place to do that , a place at the table , but it is worth the effort and the cost , because what they bring to creativity , business , education , science , law — whatever walk of life that is theirs to live — will make a difference in this world — that is Scripture lived out .
foundationally the truth of the gospel , the truth of counting others as more important than themselves , and the truth of living out who they are born to be . Next , they realize they have a purpose and a voice and must use it for such a time as this — whatever the “ this ” is in which they find themselves . And , to choose to seize the day walking in courage , courage that expands in tandem with their trust in the living God . Then they can make a difference , be the difference in families , schools , neighborhoods , cities , and countries . At times , they will have to stand up for a place to do that , a place at the table , but it is worth the effort and the cost , because what they bring to creativity , business , education , science , law — whatever walk of life that is theirs to live — will make a difference in this world — that is Scripture lived out : ‘ As each has received a gift , use it to serve …’ ( 1 Peter 4:10 ) ‘ Let each of you look out not only to his own interests , but also to the interests of others .’ ( Philippians 2:4 ).”
Esteemed CPA alumnus and student of Flautt ’ s , Jake Speck , assumes the role of Artistic Director at the Academy for the 2022-23 school year . As he joined leadership on stage to honor Flautt among family , friends , and audience members at the final performance of Newsies , her legacy to CPA came full circle . Bravos rang out to the cast , crew , and beloved Ms . Flautt !
CPALIONS . ORG 29