Black Butte School kids put on a magical winter program in Camp Sherman last week. photo by Conrad Weiler
Black Butte School kids put on a magical winter program in Camp Sherman last week. photo by Conrad Weiler
Black Butte School's annual winter performance was a perfect example of holiday magic.

The children of the small Camp Sherman school showcased their talents in the Camp Sherman Community Hall on the snowy evening of Thursday, December 17. The 16-student school offered up musical acts, skits, and a play to a standing-room-only audience of teachers, parents, family, community members and alumni. The students sent out hand-written invitations to members of the Camp Sherman community, and their efforts paid off - it was the largest crowd in recent memory.

This annual event has been a school tradition for many years and epitomizes the giving spirit and community connectedness of Camp Sherman. Music and drama teacher Jennie Sharp spent months planning and rehearsing with the children and tapped into their individual strengths, talents, and personalities.

The entire school performed "The Gingerbread Girl," a one act play by D.M. Larson, that had the crowd laughing and enjoying the young performers. Holly Foster, the grandmother of one of the students, volunteered her musical talents as she rehearsed and played piano, with the children during the performance.

The physical space was made festive with the help of Rachel Gonzalez and Gavin Ferguson, who built a stage for the children. All of the children present were surprised with a gift from Santa that was presented by the Camp Sherman Community Hall Association. The audience was thoroughly entertained and enjoyed the desserts and refreshments organized by the Parent Teacher Organization.