“After the tour, one key memory always stays with me: the idea of igniting sparks within each other and the people we meet. We had the opportunity to catch up with Josiah Rogers, an UWP alum (Cast B13 and A14), in Denver, Colorado, while he was on a national tour with the Hairspray musical. Josiah shared his brightest memories from the tour and the transformative experiences he encountered.”
I hail from Cleveland, Ohio, and spent my formative years in Orange Village. Raised by my grandparents, I experienced trauma at a young age, enduring loss. Music and Up with People saved me. My dream has always been to perform on stage and contribute to something greater, and I’m immensely proud of where I stand today.
It all began during my senior year of high school when Up with People made a visit to my school. The show sparked something within me, instilling hope and inspiration. Sitting in that audience, I was a young boy with a vision, and I knew I wanted to be a part of something like that. I auditioned and got accepted. I want to give a special thanks to Chuck and Stephanie Girard for their support.
Reflecting on my UWP tour experience fills me with awe. Stepping onto the stage felt surreal, and the journey was filled with heartwarming moments. One of the highlights was immersing myself in diverse cultures. Meeting countless families and individuals from different backgrounds, I realized that despite our differences in appearance, we all share the same humanity. And performing night after night, sharing our music with audiences worldwide, was an unparalleled experience. I’m forever grateful for it.
Now, why should a young person consider traveling with Up with People? Well, if you have a passion for music, arts, and performance, this is the perfect opportunity to expand your horizons. Plus, the chance to live with host families adds a unique dimension to the journey. It’s not just about touring; it’s about forging genuine connections. You come home to a family, and that feeling you get is so warm and welcoming. If the call to travel and perform beckons, seize it. Life is an adventure, and you shouldn’t let anything hold you back.
After the tour, one key memory always stays with me: the idea of igniting sparks within each other and the people we meet. We have always been told that our journey doesn’t end with the tour; it’s merely the beginning of a new chapter. As we carry the lessons and memories with us, we become stars that light up our own communities, shining bright and bringing change and inspiration wherever we go.
For me, Up with People isn’t just about the performances or the travels—it’s about embracing life’s wild journey and seizing every opportunity to make a difference. So, to all the young dreamers out there, I say this: don’t wait for life to happen; make it happen. The world is waiting for you to shine.