In August 2023, the Starz and Turning Pointe family said farewell to longtime STC performer and Turning Pointe student, Elsie Smith, as she passed from this world into glory. She is Home with her loved Jesus, singing and dancing on the streets of heaven. Her impact here in our community was great and the gap her absence has left is deeply felt by all. Elsie loved with the deep love of Jesus and shone His light in all she did. We rest in the knowledge that we will see her again and until that day comes we are committed to carrying on her incredible legacy in our community.

Elsie had been a part of Starz Theater Company since 2018 and participated in many roles over the years. She began her time with STC during our Peter Pan, Jr. season as as a performer in Starz Rizing, soloing on the pre-show song, “At Last I See the Light.” From that year on, she was a part of nearly every following STC show in some way. Her final on-stage performing role with STC was as Marian in “The Music Man”. Elsie also served behind-the-scenes on Stage Crew for STC and Fidele Youth Dance Company and as a STC Student Assistant for our Season 10 production of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat”. No matter her role, she was always a strong voice of encouragement, a witty voice of humor and used her powerful gift of connection and leadership to inspire, build community, bring hope and cheer on those around her.

Elsie studied musical theater and dance at Turning Pointe. In May 2023, she had a solo in the recital dance to “You Will be Found” where she left these words with the audience, “There’s a place where we don’t have to feel unknown. And every time that you call out, you’re a little less alone. If you only say the word, from across the silence your voice is heard.” What an example she was of being that person who would reach out to help others feel less alone! In addition to being a regular student in class, Elsie also faithfully served in the Turning Pointe Teacher’s Assistant program and had such a gift with the youngest students. From disinfecting ballet barres and sweeping floors, to supporting teachers, helping during recitals, and assisting at Twirl mini-camps, Elsie was a consistent presence at Turning Pointe.

In Summer 2021, Elsie became the first female recipient of STC’s 2:15 Award. The 2:15 Award is based on Philippians 2:15 “Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky as you hold firmly to the Word of Life” and recognizes one male and one female student who consistently demonstrate the following qualities: diligence, faithfulness, encouragement, positivity and one who sees and invests in others. This award is voted on by the STC Creative Team each season and Elsie was unanimously voted to be the first recipient of this award.

We love you, Elsie! What a treasured gift to have spent so many years with you and we will be forever grateful for the countless ways you have blessed each of us.