SUNDAY, MARCH 25, 2012 | CULLMANTIMES.COM
LEISURE
THE CULLMAN TIMES | RECREATION 7
SHAVER FROM PAGE 1 audition in Nashville. “It’s not a done deal, but looks promising,” he said. “They gave out information like what sort of clothes and supplies to pack for living on a cruise ship and boat safety.” If he gets the job, he’ll have a six-month contract. “There’s two months of rehearsal in Hollywood, Fla., then four months on the boat. That starts in April. I’m really hoping that comes together. I’m so excited about it. It’s really bad having to wait. I plan to keep auditioning, just so I have some options. You never know who you’re going to meet. You never know when an opportunity will arise.” In the spirit of keeping his options open, Shaver performs at just about any event he’s invited to. He’s participated in several talent competitions and performed at American Cancer Society events. “Anything creative and performing, I really like,” he said. The college sophomore will soon graduate from Wallace State Community College with an associate’s degree in general studies. While in school, Shaver has been heavily involved in the college’s performing arts programs. “I’m in the Wallace State Singers, concert choir and theater,” he said. “I was a singer at my high school. I was well known for that at my high school, so I auditioned for at Wallace and got a scholarship. I’ve been recognized since I’ve been singing more here.” While he’s grateful for music education he’s received, Shaver admits school isn’t really his thing. “I’m just getting the basics right now,” he said. “I don’t find it very satisfying sitting in a classroom all day. But Wallace State has really helped me as far as my music education goes. They’ve been great. I’m scatterbrained when it comes to education. I don’t focus well sitting in a classroom. Entertaining is what I know I want to do right now, and Wallace State has been the best for my performing learning
AMANDA SHAVERS-DAVIS/THE CULLMAN TIMES
Sy Shaver performs with the Wallace State Singers during the 2010 Cullman County Fair Queen Pageant experience. I would not have been able to make that (Royal Caribbean) audition without Wallace. It’s been two years of really good practice.” Shaver is gung-ho about the possibility of working on a cruise ship even though he’s never traveled much. “I know we went to Disney
when I was really young,” he said. “I’ve visited family in Tennessee. But that’s it. I’ve never really traveled before, so it’ll be a bit of a culture shock, I’m sure. But I’m up for anything. Talent-wise I think I’m ready. I don’t know if I’ll be ready to be away from my family. I just have to jump and
hope for the best,” he said. Shaver is particularly close to his grandmother. In fact, she accompanies him to all his auditions. “My Nanny is my best friend,” he said. “She’s such an inspiration to me. She helps me stay focused. It’s tough to find sincere friends in this
business. It’s important to me to keep those kinds of people like my Nanny close.” In the meantime, Shaver is up to performing just about any function. He sells his CD for $5 to anyone interested in hearing his style. He can be contacted at 256-636-5329 for bookings.