Former students’ legacy lives on

“He brought so much joy and passion to everything he did.”

— Shawna Marquis

Perry’s Ben Nelson Comedy Show has such an importance to the school and family of former student, Ben Nelson. Tickets are only $7 and they are handed over to the “Ben Nelson Foundation.” The show starts at 7 p.m. in the auditorium on April 22.

Ben Nelson attended Perry when the school first opened, he was very active in the theater company and a very involved student. Unfortunately he passed away in a car crash over one fall break. But, his legacy still lives on.

“We do this showcase to embody a person Ben was,” explained Shawna Marquis.

“He brought so much joy and passion to everything he did.”

Even though most of the students weren’t able to get a chance to meet Ben on a personal level, they connected to his energy on a spiritual level. It’s amazing to be able to see Ben’s former peers be so involved in his passion.
Ben’s younger brother, Sam currently attends Perry, and is very involved in the theater company as well.

“I know Ben being my brother and all, but watching the showcase every year makes me feel like he’s still there, The whole performance embodies a version of my brother,” Sam elaborated.

Ben having made such a powerful impact on his little time attending Perry easily shows what kind of person he was. The comedy show is a great way to celebrate his time on Earth.