Family interests cover all things dramatic
Ken and Jill Boles were high school sweethearts. They met at University High School in choir class. Jill graduated in 1980, and Ken in 1981. They married a few years later. Sean was born in 1986 and Erika in 1988.
Jobs, parenthood and everyday survival became their priorities. To satisfy their artistic cravings, Jill sewed and Ken took classes in art and design. Being artistic to the core, it was only a matter of time before the arts once again took hold in their lives.
The family of four settled into their Valley home, and Sean and Erika began school in the East Valley School District. In the third grade, Sean had his first taste of the stage, playing a caveman in a school musical. He had found his calling.
“I wanted to keep doing it after that,” said Sean, and keep doing it he did. Drama is not a big deal in elementary school, but Sean took advantage of every opportunity. In 2000, he auditioned for his first community theater play and got a lead role. He has been involved in Theatre Arts for Children ever since, on stage and backstage.
“You have to be weird – who isn’t? – to be in drama,” said Sean, 17.”It takes a different sort of personality, guts, and a creative mind.”
Since Sean’s involvement with theater, Jill Boles has taken her sewing to a new level and joined her son in the theater as costume maker. She takes pride in seeing actors wearing her costumes and enjoys sharing her flare with the audience.
Erika and Ken followed suit. In middle school Erika started choir and is now in an all-girl choir (Treble Select) at East Valley High School. She played Athena in Theatre Arts for Children’s production of “King Midas,” and has no intention of stopping.
“I’ve learned a lot about stage presence, self-esteem and self-expression,” said Erika Boles, 16. “and it’s great having an audience.”
When asked about the theater experience, Erika calls a play “brain exercise,” whereas when kids watch movies, not much thinking is done.
“But when you watch a play,” said Erika, “you have to expand your vision and use your imagination.”
Ken Boles auditioned for the role of a king in “Brave Little Tailor.” He got the role and has played many kings since. He also has done stage design, lighting and other jobs that allow a creative outlet.
Drama and creativity keep the Boles fueled. Ken and Jill both have regular jobs but will continue to share their songs with an audience, via costumes, stage acting or Ken’s writing.
Erika and Sean also have plans to express their talents. Sean aspires to act and learn all aspects of television and radio broadcast. Erika wants to study choir, music, theater and interior design.