One of the most meaningful experiences I’ve had as a performer – one of the times in life I’ve felt most useful – was in the hospital room of a dying man, surrounded by his family, singing his favorite Gospel songs.  I began singing and performing leading children’s roles in musical theatre as a very young child – initially because it was fun, interesting, and something I was good at (Annie was the first dream role I performed). While enjoyment is still a motivating factor, my passion for the work I do (and the way I try to live) stems more from a desire to influence people’s lives for the…