Changed for Good: A New York Story
The Tippecanoe Valley HS (IN) Choir traveled to New York City for several days of adventure. Trip Journalist Kaitlyn Eastgate recounts the tour and how The Big Apple provided more than just great shows and cool sights.
From historic landmarks and Broadway performances to spontaneous moments of music and unexpected adventures, our New York City trip was an experience all of us will cherish forever. We are incredibly grateful to the families, supporters and community members who helped make this life-changing adventure possible. Though the trip has come to an end, the memories, friendships, and lessons we gained will last a lifetime. Now, let’s take a closer look at the experiences and moments that made this journey so unforgettable.
Day 1: Landmarks, Legacy and Lady Liberty
The excitement was undeniable as we landed in New York City, ready to experience a place many of us had only dreamed of visiting. Our first stop brought us face-to-face with one of America’s most recognizable symbols – the Statue of Liberty. Standing beneath Lady Liberty on Liberty Island was a humbling reminder of the hope and opportunity she has represented for generations. From there, we traveled via ferry to Ellis Island, where we walked through the stories of millions of immigrants who passed through its halls in search of a better life.
Later, we visited the 9/11 Memorial. Surrounded by the peaceful sound of rushing water and the names etched into stone, we found ourselves in awe of both its beauty and its meaning. It was a powerful moment of reflection as we remembered the lives lost and witnessed the remarkable resilience of New York City. We ended the day gathered around tables at the House of Joy, sharing laughs, stories and excitement for the adventures that lay ahead.
Day 2: When Central Park became our Stage
Our second day began in the heart of one of the world’s most famous parks. As we explored Central Park, the city’s towering skyline faded into the background, replaced by lush greenery and moments of simple joy, including a ride on a carousel and climbing up rocks hand placed in the park. The park felt like a world of its own, offering a peaceful escape within the energy of New York.
An unforgettable memory: The Bethesda Terrace
Sometimes the most unforgettable moments are the ones you never plan.
While exploring Central Park, our group gathered beneath the arches of Bethesda Terrace and listened to the wonderful live performance in front of us. We were dancing and swaying to the beat, singing the lyrics when a dream came true. Surrounded by the terrace’s incredible acoustics, we gathered in a group and all sang Johann Pachelbel’s Pachelbel. Our voices blended together in a moment that was truly special. Tourists and locals paused to listen, smiles spread across faces and for a few moments, music connected us all.
As theatre students, our Broadway historical tour was especially meaningful. Walking around the streets where countless performers have chased their dreams deepened our love for the arts. Every theatre, every story and every stage seemed to hold a piece of Broadway’s unique yet remarkable history.
The day concluded with attending a performance of Wicked. As the lights dimmed and the curtain rose, every burden, every worry and every negative thought seemed to float away as we were transported into a world of stunning music, breathtaking performances and unforgettable storytelling. For many of us, it was a dream come true to experience Broadway surrounded by people who admire its beauty just as much as the next.
Day 3: Above the City, Under the Lights
Day three invited us to experience New York City from entirely new perspectives. At The Edge, we stood high above the streets below, taking in breathtaking views that seemed to go on forever. The city’s towering buildings, busy streets and endless energy reminded us just how remarkable New York truly is. The new Kaleidoscope Room added an extra sense of wonder, surrounding us with reflections and color that felt almost dreamlike.
Our adventure continued through Chelsea Market and Little Island, each offering its own unique glimpse into the creativity and culture that make New York so special. Later, groups had to the opportunity to explore different parts of the city, creating memories in places like Times Square, the LEGO store and the Museum of Broadway.
That evening, we gathered for dinner before attending a newly awarded Tony-winning production, The Lost Boys. Once again, more than before, we were reminded of the power storytelling has and the magic that happens when performers step onto stage. It was the perfect ending to another unforgettable day.
Day 4: One Last Bow Through Manhattan
As our time in New York began to close, we spent our final scheduled day visiting some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Rockefeller Center and Radio City Music Hall provided a glimpse into the rich history and culture of New York City, while the Metropolitan Museum of Art allowed us to stand face-to-face with incredible works of art from around the world.
One of the most breathtaking stops of the trip was St. Patrick’s Cathedral. In the thick of the noise and movement of Manhattan, the cathedral stands as a place of peace and reflection. Its towering architecture, intricate details and quiet atmosphere provided a meaningful moment to pause and appreciate the beauty surrounding us.
As we headed to the airport, we reflected on everything we experienced throughout our time in New York, grateful for every memory and moment we shared together.
Day 5: When the Script Changed
What we thought would be our journey home turned into one final, chaotic New York adventure.
After spending HOURS on the tarmac and waiting through weather delays, our flight home was ultimately canceled. While the situation was unexpected and exhausting, it certainly became another chapter in a trip already filled with unforgettable stories. A last-minute hotel in Times Square gave us one final night in the city; something none of us could’ve anticipated.
Running on very little sleep, we returned to the airport the next morning and made a stop at the iconic TWA Hotel, known for its unique appearance and architecture in Catch Me If You Can. After many hours of travel including flights to Miami then to Indianapolis, we finally arrived back home. We returned tired but with full hearts and countless memories.
Thomas Boys, Valley Voice conductor and director for the Tippecanoe Valley School Corporation, said, “The NYC experience was a wonderful one! Yes, we had some challenges and a lot of walking, but just being in the ‘city that never sleeps’ was full of so many wonderful sights and sounds that you could not find anywhere else in the world.”
We met and were able to talk to many professional performers while touring the city and at the Broadway shows we attended. This was an experience that I hope broadened the horizons for all who went, and I hope everyone learned, grew and, most of all, enjoyed themselves!
– Thomas Boys, Valley Voice Conductor, Director
“We were all stretched to the limit on our patience at one point, but we overcame all our challenges. You don’t always know what you will do when faced with any adversity until you are tested, but each and every person on this trip rose courageously, became stronger as individuals and it drew everyone closer to one another,” said Boys. “The Valley students showed amazing character and responsibility while sharing this experience of a lifetime. I hope everyone will cherish the memories of the great times we had together! It was a pleasure for me to be with so many amazing people touring such an amazing place while having the most amazing experiences,” Boys said.
Trips like this are so much more than the places we visit. They are about the people we share them with, the lessons we learn along the way and the moments that become stories we’ll tell for years to come. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who made this journey possible. Because of your support, we were able to experience something truly extraordinary. The trip may by over, but the memories we made will last a lifetime. All of us have been changed for good.
Kaitlyn Eastgate is a junior, dedicated student leader at Tippecanoe Valley HS with a passion for communication, storytelling and the arts. As a two-time National Honor Society officer and Choir President, she has developed strong leadership, organization and interpersonal skills through service to her school and community. Eastgate’s involvement with theatre, speech and debate and public speaking has strengthened her ability to communicate effectively. These experiences have inspired her interest in journalism, public relations and strategic communications, where she hopes to use the power of storytelling to inform, inspire and impact others.
