English teacher Benjamin Tatum who proclaimed himself as a “thespian” once in class stepped into the spotlight last week in the production of Annie through the Agape Theater production where he played one of the main characters, Oliver Warbucks. This was not only a chance for Tatum to showcase his passion for theater but also support his daughter, Gloria Tatum, who has been following in her fathers footsteps with an interest for theater and played the role of Tessie in the production. “Last year we did a Christmas Carol together, and so I had a great experience. I wanted to do it again with her this year. I really didn’t care what role I played. It was just to have fun with her,” Tatum said.
Tatum expected to receive a minor role in the production but ended up landing a leading role, which came with some challenges of balancing the stage and teaching. “I really had to manage my time, especially my time at school… I couldn’t waste a moment of school time,” Tatum said. To stay on track he would set aside time to read and recite his lines often with the help of his wife. These rehearsals quickly became a family affair. “My two younger sons could almost recite the script because they heard it being read and sung around the house so much,” Tatum said.
Despite the struggle to balance teaching and preparing for the role it all proved to be worthwhile as some of his students came to watch and support not only himself but his daughter as well. “They brought flowers for my daughter which made her feel so special,” Tatum said. His student’s presence offered a rare opportunity where students were able to give the same support and encouragement teachers often give to their students. “It was so special and it made me realize from a teacher standpoint what that feels like for us teachers and students to support each other outside of school. I know teachers often try to show up at sporting events and theater productions,” Tatum said.
For some of his students this opportunity was special as they were able to show appreciation for one of their teachers. “I didn’t see Mr. Tatum on the stage, I saw the character he played. He added so much to the character,” senior Thatin Iang said. For Iang, attending the show helped serve as a reminder teachers are just people too who have hobbies and passion. “They aren’t just your teachers, they also have things going on outside of school. I think being there for him serves as a reminder that we care about him too and that we are grateful for what he does in the school,” Iang said.
Senior Ziik Len Sang her freshman year was the sound technician for the school’s production of “Annie”, so seeing Tatum sing “Something was Missing” was one her favorite moments bringing her back to freshman year listening to music being sung. Len Sang recalled that approaching him after the show was intimidating at first, but quickly became the highlight of the night. “I have only known him for about 3 months, it doesn’t classify our connection as close, but I knew it meant a lot for him, so I wanted to put in effort to come attend…it was heartwarming to see his face light up to see his students support him.” Len Sang said
For Tatum and his students who attend his performances served as a meaningful reminder how important it is to show up for each other. What seems like a small gesture attending, cheering and being present is something that creates moments that are remembered far beyond the event itself.
