June, 2026 Newsletter

This month, we’re reconnecting with alumni and celebrating the hard work of SCORE! students

A Shared Vision: From Our Executive Director, Dr. Brittany Barber

More than twenty-five years ago, I stood on the Hamilton Wings stage in awe of what was possible. As a child, I often felt like my peers had little interest in my quirks or my thoughts, leaving me believing I had nothing meaningful to offer beyond small, entertaining moments on a stage. Being a character was comforting—empathizing with their journey and embodying their words so others could understand. I was never afraid of the stage or lights. The real fear was being myself.

But this organization helped to rewrite my trajectory. Hamilton Wings taught me the profound power of standing in my own shoes, showing me that my unique voice and thoughts could actually help shape an entire world.

Today, returning to lead this organization is deeply personal. My driving purpose is to ensure that every child recognizes the power of their own voice, because every single one of them has a vital story, both on the stage and in their lives. 

We are entering a beautiful, deliberate new chapter of growth, and our students still have so many powerful stories to share. I invite you to see the living testament of your generosity by joining us on June 27th for our upcoming production of “When We are Older”.

This performance is a celebration of what happens when we empower young people to become creative, community-centered leaders.

As we look to the future—strengthening our program pipeline from elementary school through college and moving toward a permanent home for year-round creations—we invite you to deepen your journey with us. By supporting Hamilton Wings, you aren't just funding an arts program; you are choosing to be a character in a child's story, providing the sustainable fuel that allows them to confidently write their own next chapters.

DONATE

LEAVE A GOOD LUCK MESSAGE FOR THE CAST!

Encourage the cast by leaving a good luck message for their opening day!

The SCORE! cast has been working really hard this past year and we'd love to celebrate all of their hard work. Please take a moment to leave a few words of encouragement and inspiration. Your messages will be on display backstage for the students to read and enjoy!

Leave a Message

WHEN WE ARE OLDER

Two best friends become enemies after a life-shattering rumor tears them apart.

Revenge is cruel. Can the girls--and their friendship--recover?

Never seen a show before? This is a great time to check out—you have to see it to really believe it!

Get Your Tickets NOW!

WHEN

Saturday, June 27, 2026

Doors Open: 6:30pm

Performance: 7:00pm

WHERE

Elgin Community College

Arts Center, Building H

Blizzard Theatre

WHERE ARE OUR ALUMNI NOW?

Meet one of our Hamilton Wings alumni, Melody Contreras

Melody Contreras is a writer, dramaturg, and actor based in Chicago, Illinois. Originally from Elgin, Illinois, Melody's connection to Hamilton Wings began at age 13 when she met Dr. Jones through Development By Design, where her mother served as a program facilitator. The following year, she participated in SCORE. During her time at Larkin High School, she emerged as a student leader, helping numerous SCORE productions.

After graduating from Larkin High School, Melody attended the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, where she earned two degrees.  

Her lifelong involvement with Hamilton Wings came full circle when she joined the organization as a staff member in 2023.

Today, Melody serves as a Program Facilitator and Alumni Coordinator for Hamilton Wings, where she is dedicated to fostering meaningful connections, supporting alumni engagement, and empowering the next generation of leaders.

STAY CONNECTED

What’s new with the Alumni Collective

On June 4, the Alumni Collective hosted our first meeting, and it was a wonderful reminder of why Hamilton Wings matters. It was so inspiring to catch up, share a few favorite memories, and talk through some creative ideas for the future. If you, or someone you know, is an alumnus, join our e-mail list to stay in the loop on future gatherings and volunteer opportunities.

Excited to Connect

EVERY CHILD DESERVES ACCESS TO THE ARTS!

Every story shared, every milestone, and every upcoming performance is a beautiful reminder of our mission to ignite the brilliance and agency within our youth. Incredible, creative energy is in motion right now. Thank you for walking alongside us, helping our young people soar, and fueling our exciting future ahead.