Family Bonding

Connecting individuals to each other, to the community, and to what enables them to flourish at any life stage is our mission. And sometimes that mission ends up strengthening bonds in an entire family. One of our Signature Programs—Desert Foothills Theater—was the catalyst for this kinship in The Madden Family. Here’s their story about how each member of their family found ways to thrive individually and together.

By Rachael Madden, Patron and Volunteer

We learned about The Holland Center in 2018 when our daughter Josie was interested in auditioning for Desert Foothills Theater’s (DFT) youth production of Willy Wonka. Rehearsals were held at The Holland Center, and we were immediately impressed with the wonderful facility. We were new to community theater and realized quickly how fortunate we were to have this beautiful facility in our community minutes from our home.

Once Josie started doing shows I began volunteering backstage helping with costumes, makeup, working front of house, and setting up and striking sets from her shows. My husband Rob, with his love for photography, began volunteering his time and talent providing actor headshots and production photos for all of the DFT productions—including the most recent production of “25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee”.

Rob and I are so fortunate because we are able to expand on our love for dance and photography. In addition to doing photography for DFT, Rob has had the opportunity to also photograph many other events such as fundraisers and award ceremonies at The Holland Center. He enjoys any chance to get behind the camera to capture a special moment for someone. I grew up here in the valley as a dancer and working as a choreographer with DFT is very rewarding. I just completed my second summer of theater camps, and I’m very involved in the upcoming season of shows. I get the amazing opportunity to work with all ages! My goal is for them not only to learn dance technique for the show that they are in, but to build their skills for anything they may pursue in their future. Holland Center is a wonderful space for people to share their talent or knowledge in ways they haven’t had a chance to.

DFT also provided opportunities for our two older sons Robert and Matthew. They accrued volunteer service hours by painting scenery, setting up the lobby, and clearing the sets after shows. These volunteer hours helped them achieve their Superintendent’s Challenge Award at Cactus Shadows High School. When all of us had roles together like this, we enjoyed many wonderful family nights out together after shows—grabbing dinner before or after.

For us as a family, if The Holland Center didn’t exist, we may never have experienced community theater. It has become a big part of our everyday life. We believe everyone has something to offer and/or share. When we are able to step out and connect with someone in any way, that brings people together. The Holland Center continues to provide a perfect and welcoming space for all of this to happen—including our very own family.

Sometimes our everyday lives keep us so busy that you can easily lose sight and connection to others. Our family is so grateful for The Holland Center because it provides a real connection in our community and to each other.