The performing-arts students at Miami Northwestern High School have a surplus of talent. But they didn't have enough money to go to Scotland. They tried car washes, snack sales and donations to raise the $105,000 needed to attend a prestigious theater festival -- but the funds raised came up short. Then, two parents did something dramatic: They took out a loan for $32,000. Bravo to the students, parents and drama coach.
The students now are at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. They'll show off their talents in four performances of the raucous musical Ain't Misbehavin'. The students are one of 20 high-school drama troupes in the country invited to the festival. This is the third time that Northwestern students have been selected, and the first time they have made the trip.
The invitation is an honor for the students, and South Floridians should be proud that the students are representing us. Miami Northwestern is a ''double F'' school. The drama students are proof that those who attend struggling schools have the will and ability to excel.
The parents have 30 days to pay off the $32,000 loan. Students have raised a little more than $600. Give them a round of applause -- and some help.
• Send donations to Miami Northwestern High School Drama Department, c/o PAVAC Players Parents Association, 1100 NW 71st St., Miami, FL 33150. Call Julit Miller at 305-562-6583.
