In September, WGI Sport of the Arts canceled in-person events for the 2021 season, but the organization is still providing plenty of options for performance and leadership growth. WGI is offering both competitive and non-competitive virtual opportunities. They will also provide mentoring and leadership training for young performers through the I AM WGI: Future Leaders Program.
Because of the unique season, WGI added solo and small ensemble categories to the competition options. “It is our goal to include as many performers who want to participate as possible, regardless of their current circumstances,” says Trevor Jordan, WGI marketing manager.
WGI also added a non-competitive class called eShowcase. “[eShowcase] gives creative control to designers in terms of video editing and effects, non-traditional spaces, and more—factors that would not be possible in a typical in-person setting,” Jordan says.
Performers in all categories will receive commentary from adjudicators. Virtual season entries opened on Nov. 16.
The I AM WGI: Future Leaders Program is a three-year journey for performers ages 18 to 21. Individuals receive mentorship by WGI board members, ambassadorship as a link between other performers and WGI leaders, and firsthand experience working on a grassroots-type project for WGI.
WGI is also fundraising and seeking donations. The pandemic has had a negative impact of more than $1.5 million on the organization, but Jordan says that WGI is on the road to recovery. “While much remains uncertain right now, one thing is for sure: This crisis will pass. Our community will recover, and we will return in 2022 by providing powerful and meaningful experiences for young people as WGI has [done] for more than four decades,” he says.
Visit wgi.org for more details.
