LAUSD putting on a show -- a talent show -- to showcase employee-entertainers, raise money for after-school programs - LA Daily News

LAUSD putting on a show -- a talent show -- to showcase employee-entertainers, raise money for after-school programs - LA Daily News:

LAUSD putting on a show -- a talent show -- to showcase employee-entertainers, raise money for after-school programs

by By Barbara Jones, Staff Writer

Sure, America and even Britain have talent.

Turns out, Los Angeles Unified does, too.

The nation's second-largest school district is organizing a variety show to spotlight the talents of its 60,000-plus employees while raising money to fund after-school programs.

"I want to really show the quality of talent we have," said Ted Johnson, an administrative coordinator for the district's Beyond the Bell Branch. "We're going to have costumes, lighting. I want to really make this top drawer."

Johnson said he's received a couple dozen calls since LAUSD posted a call for applicants, including inquiries from a would-be comedian, a jug band, salsa dancers and a lot of singers, including Assistant Superintendent Earl Perkins.

"I got a call from a principal who plays the bagpipes," Johnson said. "I've heard he's pretty good."

Although plans are still tentative, Johnson hopes to hold auditions in mid-January