A few months ago, (a friend) Judy reached me on Facebook, sending me a YouTube video of (her son) Erik Smith singing for the Auburn Firefighters fundraiser.

At that time, Judy asked me if I had any requests. Since “Bring Him Home” from “Les Miserables” is one of my all-time favorites, I asked for that one. Within two days, I received a YouTube audio that absolutely brought me to tears.

A few weeks ago, I happened to glance at my e-mailed bulletin from Sacramento Area Regional Theatrical Alliance. Instead of deleting it as I frequently do, I scanned down and noticed a headline saying, “EMERGENCY AUDITION — Searching for Jean Valjean (Les Miserables).” My first thought was, “Too bad Erik is so young — Valjean is a mature man.”

Then I saw: “Youth Production by Music & More, Auburn.” Oh! My gosh! This is meant for Erik Smith! The director, Jonathan Coder, immediately telephoned Erik, asking him to audition and of course, the part was his.

I could hardly wait for opening night. Erik’s performance was truly stunning. I was impressed with the caliber of talent demonstrated by these young people, most of whom are students at Music & More’s Actor’s Workshop.

Erik is currently a student at Sierra College. As I watched this young man deliver his polished, powerful role, I had the thought, “Why aren’t there scouts at these community theater presentations, searching for top-notch, outstanding talent to which they could fund university scholarships and launch fabulous careers like they have in professional sports?”

So the least I can do is try in this way to let the public know there is something worth their admiration being done right here within their grasp. And hope our local newspaper will help spread the word.

Jackie Aievoli, Roseville

Editor’s note: The last performances of “Les Miserables” will be at 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday at Music & More, 11596 D. Ave. in Auburn.