Featured Story
Performer’s Perspective
Mar 30, 2009
In appreciation of all the performer's dedication and energy, WGI has recently caught up with several performers to learn more about what they experience and deal with during the season. Danielle Gladeau of the Miamisburg High School winter guard recently told WGI what it’s like to be a part of such a competitive activity.
What is your history with color guard?
In fifth grade my mom convinced me to sign up for color guard. I was a very shy girl and when I saw all the new faces I started crying and told her I didn’t want to do it anymore. Thankfully, she signed me up anyways and I quickly fell in love with performing and made a lot of new friends. I continued in the Junior High and Scholastic A Guard and have been in the Miamisburg World Guard for four years. Now I can’t imagine myself doing anything else. This activity has helped shaped who I have become.
What are some traditions that your group does?
The Miamisburg Color Guard has many traditions that have been around since the 80’s when the guard was started, as well as a few newer ones. Before warm-up at every competition we form a circle and hold hands while we recite a poem called “It’s all in the State of The Mind” and say the Lord’s Prayer. We are a pretty superstitious guard; we can’t split poles, we hit doorframes and walk in the same order at every competition. We also tap flag poles down the line before the show. And of course the elephant with it’s trunk up is our good luck symbol!! Everyone in the guard has countless elephants by the time they graduate.
What do you do outside of color guard?
During the winter season I don’t have much time because we are either practicing or performing almost everyday. One thing that is very important to me outside of color guard is volunteering at one of our elementary schools. Since my sophomore year I have gone in at least once a week to help students one-on-one or in small groups. I have grown very close to some of the kids and it’s very rewarding knowing that I can be a positive role model for them. I recently introduced the third grade class I work with to color guard by showing them a video of one of our performances. They were all amazed with the performance and it was a great feeling to bring my two favorite activities together. I also make time to go out with my friends and family and also allow myself a little time each night to just be alone and relax.
How do you balance marching with school, work, family and friends?
Although it has been a challenge, I have managed to maintain a 4.0 GPA, work and be fully committed to color guard. Time management is one of the most important lessons I’ve learned from color guard. Although it can be stressful occasionally, I usually manage my time better when my schedule is more demanding because I know I have a lot to do and am more motivated to get things done. I use any extra class time to work on homework assignments instead of socializing and complete them as soon as I get home so I have more time with friends and family in the evening. I don’t have enough time during the winter season to find a job, but I was able to instruct the elementary and junior high color guards during the fall season and when the world guard had nights off.
What are some achievements you’ve made that you are proud of?
I am proud of the fact that I have always challenged myself and strongly believe that I can improve myself everyday whether it is in my academics, colorguard, or life in general. I have taken many honors courses in high school and worked hard to maintain straight A’s. I have attended the Zydeco and Onyx summer clinics to expand on my color guard skills and improve my technique. Throughout the years I have willingly accepted any challenge my instructors have given me and worked until I achieve what is asked of me. Finally accomplishing tasks that I didn’t think I was capable of gives me a great sense of pride.
What are your plans for the future?
Next year I will be going to Miami University in Oxford, Ohio to become an elementary teacher. I would love to be able to study abroad in Europe or Japan and have already started to save money. I plan to stay involved with the color guard program by continuing to teach the Miamisburg Elementary and Junior High Guards as well as try out for Zydeco Colorguard. Since their first year of existence, I have been a huge fan of their shows. I have attended their summer clinics and had a blast. I’m very excited to finally get the opportunity to audition.
What has made the 2009 season something different and special?
The 2009 season has been very special to me because I feel so close to this group of performers. From the beginning of our fall season, the guard has just clicked. We truly are like a family and I couldn’t have imagined a better group to spend my senior year with. I also felt a great connection with the staff this year and am grateful for all of the knowledge they have given me. It’s an honor to be taught by such talented individuals. Of all the shows I have been in, “All Road Lead to Rome” has been my favorite to perform. This year will definitely be one that I hold very close to my heart.
What is the funniest thing that happened during the 2009 season?
There have been so many funny moments that it’s hard to choose. On the way home from the Indianapolis Regional one of the girls got up and sang “On an Evening in Roma” from the Lizzie McGuire Movie on the microphone on the charter bus and was dancing down the aisle. Pretty soon we were all singing. Another one of my favorite things that happened this season was when one of the girls threw her water bottle and accidentally hit the coliseum. It started to fall down and the whole guard rushed over to catch it. It was hilarious to see twenty-two high school kids screaming and running to keep the coliseum from turning to “ruins”!
What is your most memorable performance memory from the 2009 season so far?
The Ferndale regional and Indianapolis regional were both very memorable weekends for the guard. I could feel the energy on the floor and we all felt great after the performances. It’s so exhilarating to know you and your teammates did your best and put everything they had into the show.
What positive lessons have you learned from the activity?
Color guard has taught me to be committed and to not accept anything less than my personal best. I have learned to lead by example and always offer help to people who are struggling. I value teamwork and strive to help others in the group be successful because every member of a team is important. This activity has also helped me to express myself and become more open and confident. As my passion for performance has grown, so has my fun, outgoing nature. It has also taught me that although people may be my competitors, they share my love for the activity and we are all working to achieve the same thing. I have been able to make friends with people in many different units and I am extremely thankful for the support we all give each other.
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