“I'm excited to see the Lord at work. What a privilege to be a part!”
As Ms. Tina spoke those final words into the discussion that led to Fidèle Youth Dance Company’s 2020 production story, hearts were at peace. The company was gearing up for its 2019 production. The arts were alive and packing auditoriums. Businesses were open. No one had heard of Zoom and there was plenty of toilet paper and hand sanitizer on the shelves.
“We trusted the Lord and His direction for the next production, knowing each student would be chosen ‘for such a time as this,’” FYDC director Mimi McKinnis said. “But I don't think any of us could have predicted how ‘this’ would actually look.”
They chose two Biblical stories, Ruth and Esther, and brainstormed a way to tie them together — something to bring continuity to the performance. After pouring over the scriptures and covering each concept in prayer, it was clear. These were women of faith. This was their theme, divinely chosen as the centerpoint for the 2020 season. After all, Fidèle is French for “faithful.”
Turns out, throughout this remarkable season, they’ve all needed an extra dose of faith. Faith that they could even hold auditions. Faith that they could rehearse and perform at all. Faith in His provision over their health and safety as they saw this season through. As they faced unpredictable obstacles in an unprecedented year, in their own ways, they were all called up to follow Him in faith, just like the heroines of this year’s production.
“Thank you to our students for showing up week after week, having faith in this process, and trusting His plan for our season,” McKinnis said. “And thank you to our families for having faith in our company, and for their patience and grace as we've navigated uncharted waters.”
One day members of FYDC can look back on the challenges they faced this season—the doors that closed, the countless unknowns and the variances, mandates and state requirements that changed almost daily—and smile, knowing their faith was strengthened through the stories of faith told.
“While it all looks a lot different than what we first envisioned, I can see His hand in every detail,” McKinnis said. “I see it in the verse we chose for our t-shirts, in the cast and choreography that came together, and even in our eventual performance venue, which turned out to be the home of Turning Pointe’s very first recital. We are so blessed by our amazing members. Rather than getting lost in the noise, we came together and stayed true to the company’s name.”
In a year as crazy as 2020 has been, FYDC has truly seen the Lord at work. What a privilege to be a part!
See FYDC’s production of “Women of Faith: Ruth & Esther” two ways:
In person performances (limited seating, socially distanced)
Watch a live performance at Noon, 3 or 6 p.m., Saturday, November 14, at CSCS
Tickets are limited and available here.
2. Watch the performance from the comfort and safety of your home or church
Purchase a BlueRay or digital download of the production, or rent the link for 24 hours.
Want to create a theater experience at home? Host a Women of Faith Watch Party! Enjoy a performance of “Women of Faith: Ruth & Esther” from anywhere as you share these gospel messages with your church, small group, coworkers, friends and family. Choose one of the digital options above, then head to the FYDC website for printable programs, performance-inspired recipes, intermission devotionals, and ways to inspire change.