Charles loved the stage. And it loved him. Stand up comedy, rapping, plays. I spoke here June 15, 2016 in Richmond, VA about our journey since losing him to suicide at age 20 and the #griefheart project. Such a supportive crowd for Talk20 Richmond. I saw the face and thought, “That’s a #griefheart!”

From his drama teacher at Wasatch Academy where he graduated high school.

“I brought a group of Comedy class students to Cedar City where Off the Cuff, a professional group of Improvisers, graciously allowed us to perform with them. Charles was amazing and OTC were so impressed with all the boys…one said “I thought we would have to carry the evening and help these kids out but NO not once.” As we were leaving Charles said to me…”that was the best weekend I ever had” He was so truly in his element and it was one of those moments that make my life worthwhile.

I did a production of Alice in Wonderland and cast him as the Caterpillar. At first I was trying to direct him in this way or that then one day it occurred to me to just let him do it his way. It was stunning and everyone in the room knew they were in the presence of genius. We took this piece to Regional and State Drama Competition and Charles also entered a Humorous Monologue of his own invention. He became an instant sensation at the competition. Girls were following him everywhere and we all felt like we had brought Elvis to a Kindergarten picnic. It was fantastic and we were all thrilled. Though I only knew him briefly while he was at Wasatch I feel I got to experience him in all his glory and I will never forget him.”

What is the #griefheart project?

I explain my #griefheart project here.

See all #griefhearts so far on pinterest or on this blog by#griefheart category.