Each week, Swampscott Reporter editor Katrina Powell rounds up and reflects on her recent published work, giving readers an in-depth look at life in the newsroom. This post does not reflect the opinions of the Swampscott Reporter or its parent company, GateHouse Media New England. All opinions expressed in the post belong to Katrina Powell, and did not hinder her ability to be objective and unbiased in her reporting and writing.
I feel incredibly lucky to be covering my hometown for a living.
Connecting with the people of this town and sharing their stories is such a special thing for me. The people I interview day after day aren’t just sources; they’re my former teachers, neighbors, friends and the folks I say “hello” to while waiting in line at the drugstore. They’re a part of my life, as much as my work is a part of their lives.
This week, I had the opportunity to write an article about a childhood friend of mine who will be taking the stage in New York City as a cast member in Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “Cinderella” later this month.
I’ve known Andy since we were just kids, and even back then, his talent for acting, dancing and singing was undeniable. I’m so happy to see him put his passion to work, especially in a show that’s all about the magic of turning your dreams into a reality.
Read a portion of the article below, or click on the click to read the article in its entirety.
Dreams do come true: Jones makes debut on Broadway in “Cinderella”
Swampscott’s Andy Jones can pinpoint the exact moment that he fell in love with theater. He was sitting in the audience at the Little Theatre during a Swampscott High School Drama Club performance of “Pippin.” And while he was only 8 years old at the time, that moment would come to define who he would become.
“I remember seeing that show and I was totally hooked,” Jones said in a recent interview. “Honestly, because of that experience, I knew I wanted to be a part of the drama program at Swampscott High. I could have gone to a performing arts high school, but that experience made me want to be at SHS.”
Flash-forward to the present, where Jones is finally about to get his big break as a dancer, singer and actor. Jones will make his Broadway debut on Friday, Jan. 25 in a show that has never before hit the stage in New York City.
“It’s a pinch-me moment every day,” Jones said.
A member of the ensemble in Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “Cinderella,” Jones feels like his dream is about to come true, he said.
the northeast ginger 