The Edge
An Oswego East High School student publication
May, 2007
Emery Performs Positive Messages Both On, Off Stage
Alex Bennefield, assistant news editor; The Edge
It takes a special kind of person to dedicate their time and effort to constant rehearsing, singing, dancing, and acting with a performing arts troupe designed to promote a positive message to teens.
It also speaks volumes about that person when he celebrates winning nationals with a dance troupe deemed the “Best in the Midwest.”
Sophomore Michael Emery has done just that, while seemingly passing as just another normal student at OEHS.
Emery performs with a performing arts troupe named MWAH! (Messages Which Are Hopeful!), which promotes positive morals through singing, acting, and dancing.
He is also a member of an elite hip-hop based dance company named Xtreme Dance Force, which has performed with artists including Chingy, Lupe Fiasco, Ludacris, and Ciara.
“My love and passion for music inspires me, so it’s very important to me,” Emery said. “I put a lot of time and effort into what I do.”
Emery advocates a positive message not only on stage, but at school as well.
“He seems to enjoy doing it right and he’s very self-motivated,” Choir Director Peter Barsch said. “He’s performing with a troupe that displays a positive message in the classroom, and he seems to be a good role model.”
Emery presents himself as “non-judgmental” to his peers and is known to treat everyone like an individual, according to Sophomore Tony LaBat.
Emery says he knows what he wants and continues to work hard towards one day becoming a successful recording and touring country artist.
“It is very possible,” according to MWAH! founder and director Ray Moffitt.
“Michael does well at anything he tries,” Moffitt said.
“I get zoned in and totally focused on what’s right now. I block out anything that distracts me and just put it all out there,” said Michael. “Teens need more positive role models and less negative influences.
Emery also performed at the May Talent Show.”
