Letter to the Editor: Huge Appreciation for Whale of a Show

For the past several years, Didier Gincig has produced and directed the Whale of a Show at Orcas Center, keeping this wonderful Orcas Island tradition thriving. It has always offered the community a chance to have fun, on stage or in the audience, and to appreciate a broad range of talent.

This year’s show was special because of its representation of families, and because of the performers’ high caliber of skill. We saw many siblings, as well as a father and daughter duo. Didier and his daughter, Emily, were our wonderful emcees, and even Grandpa Bill got into the act.

All were musical acts, some with dancing, excepting one magician (whose family provided technical assistance). It was inspiring to see the bravery and charm of the youngest performers, and gratifying to watch and hear the older ones, who have been seriously honing their solo and ensemble skills.

What came across, in this year’s Whale Show, was the real value of persistent dedication to improving skills over a long time, and having supportive and involved parents. Furthermore, it is probably no co-incidence that many of these young performers have been involved in the very excellent instrumental music program at the public school, lead by gifted instructors who set high standards.

Thank you, Didier, for your persistent dedication to ensuring that the Whale of a Show continues to give our community the chance to appreciate our talented neighbors in this wonderful way.