Riverside Theatre Kids Unite with Texas Dance Troupe in Heartfelt Tribute

Dallas, Texas, USA - The tragic impact of the recent floods in Central Texas continues to resonate throughout communities far beyond state lines. In a heartfelt response, children from Riverside Theatre in Vero Beach, Florida, are rallying to support their counterparts at the Preston Center Dance in Dallas after the devastating loss caused by these floods. On July 4, a sudden deluge resulted in over 130 fatalities, leaving many families shattered and countless lives upended, particularly at Camp Mystic, where several young campers lost their lives during the chaos.

Six students from Preston Center Dance were among the casualties, stirring deep sorrow not only in their own community but also among the many who had shared the stage with them at the annual Junior Theater Festival. Kevin Quillinan, Riverside Theatre’s director of education, initiated a project where students are sending cards and friendship bracelets to the grieving families in Dallas. This act of solidarity underscores a belief in the power of theater as a unifying force, even in the face of unimaginable grief. „The Preston Center Dance community is not alone in their grief,“ Quillinan remarked, emphasizing the importance of connection during these trying times.

A Dark Day Amid Celebration

The catastrophic flooding was triggered by the rapidly rising waters of the Guadalupe River. Reports indicate that young campers from Camp Mystic sang hymns as they faced evacuation during the disaster. The tale of sorrow deepened with news of the young victims, including 8-year-old twin sisters Hanna and Rebecca Lawrence and Lila Bonner, who was just 9. Their families have expressed devastation, as have many others, including the loved ones of Lainey Landry, an outgoing 9-year-old from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and 8-year-old Sarah Marsh from Alabama.

• Victims of the Flood:
• Hanna and Rebecca Lawrence: 8-year-old twin sisters from Dallas
• Lila Bonner: 9-year-old from Dallas
• Eloise Peck: 8-year-old from Dallas
• Hadley Hanna: 8-year-old from Dallas
• Virginia Wynne Naylor: 8-year-old known for her love of the outdoors
• Mary Grace Baker: Recently celebrated her first Holy Communion
• Lainey Landry: 9-year-old from Baton Rouge
• Sarah Marsh: 8-year-old from Alabama
• Blair and Brooke Harber: Sisters aged 13 and 11 from Dallas
• Chloe Childress: 18-year-old counselor remembered for her compassion
• Dick Eastland: Camp Mystic director, who tragically died while trying to save campers

Community and Compassion

Though the children from Riverside Theatre never knew the Preston dancers personally, there is an unspoken bond among those who share a love for the stage. This sentiment is echoed by Riverside students, some of whom had previously met the Preston Center creative team during the Junior Theater Festival. Ellie Palm, one of the Riverside kids, remarked on the loss of bright performers and spirits, noting how crucial it is to support each other with messages of compassion, especially in the aftermath of such a disaster.

Many in South Florida have come together, sending not just cards but also expressions of love and encouragement. „Showing support is crucial during such difficult times,“ said Giselle Fernandez, another student involved in this initiative. The widespread impact of the floods has also left over 12,000 buildings damaged in the San Angelo area, affecting a community of about 100,000 people. TCPalm reports that the annual Junior Theater Festival fosters connections and friendships that amplify the significance of this solidarity.

As the search for missing campers continues, both joy and sorrow intermingle in this season of remembrance. Communities across the nation are urged to extend their hands in support, reminding us that in despair, hope, kindness, and camaraderie can shine brighter than ever. CBS News reports.