Up With People - the performance
Recently I had the opportunity to watch the performance of Up With People’s “Cast B” while they were in Portland. It was interesting, entertaining, and the amount of work and time involved was easily observed. I went to this performance because my brother works for the company, I was giving him wallets (to be given to the cast), and traffic was backed up getting home 
I’m glad I stayed; I had a good time and enjoyed hearing about Up With People- to an extent.
But I didn’t like all I heard. I support my brother 100%. But I felt like the performance was more of an advertisement and tribute than it was educational or motivational. I was asked my opinion of the show afterwards, and must admit I fibbed a bit. It seemed like Up With People was saying; “Look, aren’t we fucking great! Now give us money.” This didn’t sit well with me. I understand recruiting is a huge deal in this type of industry (non-profit), but tactfully and down-played. And, when they ask alumni to get up and sing the song and a full HALF of the crowd runs enthusiastically to the stage, things became much clearer to me. Money may make the world go round, but I don’t think it should be the not-so-subtle undertone in a performance that’s supposed to be educational and motivating. This is absolutely NOT against the students- they did an amazing job and put on a good show.
That being said, I really enjoy the blog “Cast B” has. I like the student contributions, as well as the amount of content they have to go through. Check it out!
