An interview I’ll always remember

As the editor of Postville Herald for over three decades, and as a feature writer for the past several years since my retirement, I have had the privilege of interviewing hundreds (maybe thousands) of people (and a few animals) ranging in age from 5 to 100. I have interviewed politicians, elected officials and professional athletes and everything and everyone in-between. To be honest, 99% of those interviews were enjoyable and quite a few were memorable.

 However, this letter is not to toot my own horn. Besides, I don’t know how to toot a horn.

But, rather to tell you about one of my all-time most enjoyable interviews as three great kids shared their love of musical theatre with me. Postville Community School District students Olivia Enyart, a sophomore; Kaedyn Heitland, a freshman and Hattie Ruff, an eighth grader, sat down with me Wednesday, November 13, the afternoon before the opening night of the Wolfpack Theater Company’s production of “Mean Girls” to promote the musical and explain the advantages of taking part in community theater. 

While all three had significant roles in the play and were headed to their final dress rehearsal following our interview, they were totally relaxed and ready to spend some time promoting their love of musical theater.

Their enthusiasm and passion for the organization and specifically “Mean Girls” was evident from their welcoming smiles, praise for their director and so much more.

The trio, who met me at the door of the school, immediately suggested we go to a classroom where we could visit without distractions. They made sure we had a table where we could spread out as they shared the script and even a few excerpts from the play.

They took time to share how Wolfpack Theater originated and how the group embraces any and all participants.  They had praise for its founder and director, Adam Hooten, and the generosity he shares with the entire troop. Although it was obvious to this well-seasoned writer that these young people are wise well-beyond their years, they were quick to praise their affiliation with Wolfpack for their maturity and knowledge of the effort it takes to put these types of presentations together.

While promoting “Mean Girls” the teens were also quick to point out the opportunities they take advantage of at Postville Junior-Senior High School. It was obvious they give 100% in whatever activities they pursue as they shared their enthusiasm for football, drama, speech, band, and much more. Their Postville Pirate Pride is alive and well.

Having spent an hour with these teenagers as well as spending an enjoyable Saturday evening (thanks kids for finding me a ticket) totally engrossed in “Mean Girls”, I could not have been more proud of these three young Postvillians who also happen to be very talented.

To the community: If you have a chance to get to a Wolfpack Production or any of the wonderful presentations at Postville Schools, do it! I promise, you won’t be disappointed.