Absolutely—yes to both! In fact, performing has been a thread running through my life for as long as I can remember. My mom was a lifelong performer, practically born on stage, and she definitely passed that love along to me.
In fact, my first “performance” was before I was even born—my mom was eight months pregnant with me when she played Maria in The Sound of Music. So I like to say I was on stage as a “future baby nun” before I was even born.
Once we moved to Florida, my first real stage role was as the Littlest Angel in our church’s Christmas play. From there, my mom got me involved in the Sarasota Boys’ Choir and encouraged me to keep singing. I even wrote and performed in a play in fifth grade. Singing in church became a big part of my life, and it still is—I’m part of the worship team now and it’s something I feel called to do.
I’ve also had a couple of fun moments stepping into school productions. A few years ago, I performed “Vienna” by Billy Joel, and last year I sang “Who I’d Be” from Shrek the Musical. Both of those performances are on YouTube, and while I definitely get nervous and sometimes forget a word or two, I know it’s a gift I’m meant to use. It’s a way of honoring my mom’s legacy and the voice God gave me.
And yes, I’ve given a few speeches too—even some political ones back in the day—but the stage feels most like home when I’m singing.
Copyright © 2025 Doug DeBolt.
