Rosie’s Theater Kids Release Original Song, “Sing My Own Way”

Rosie's Theater Kids (RTKids), New York City-based non-profit organization founded by Rosie O'Donnell, has announced the release of its original song, "Sing My Own Way," now available on iTunes. It was recently performed live by the students at Rosie's annual Building Dreams for Kids Gala in October, which raised over $900,000 for the organization. Founder Rosie O'Donnell says, "I know what it's liked to be saved by a school. By a Sondheim song. By a cast of people who understand that being different is your biggest strength in life. That's Rosie's Theater Kids."

RTKids is an arts organization dedicated to enriching the lives of children through the arts. They serve students who otherwise not have the opportunity to experience theater, positively changing the trajectory of their lives by providing comprehensive classes in music, dance, and drama; thoughtful mentoring; and structured academic guidance. Its goal is to inspire excellence, motivate learning, uplift the human spirit, build confidence, and spark a lifelong appreciation for the arts.

Songwriters Steven Jamail and Morgan Karr set out to capture the vocal talents of the students in RTKids' ACTE II (A Commitment To Excellence) program, giving them a unique anthem as young artists in New York City. Jamail and Karr generously donated "Sing My Own Way" to RTKids, allowing all proceeds to support the non-profit organization. The song is performed in its entirety by these students.

RTKids' ACTE II program is targeted to exceptionally talented students from low-income families. Professional teaching artists and guests from the Broadway stage provide instruction after-school and during a summer intensive, and students participate in performance opportunities throughout the year. The program also includes supplemental services in tutoring, mentoring and nutrition for these students. Students in the program join the summer after their fifth grade year, and those in good standing may remain in the program until they graduate from high school.

"'Sing My Own Way' isn't just about our students; there are universal themes that anyone can relate to," says RTKids Artistic and Executive Director Lori Klinger. "It's a beautiful piece, and we're so happy to be sharing it with a wider audience. We are so grateful to Steven Jamail and Morgan Karr for their gift."

"Sing My Own Way" can be downloaded from iTunes at https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/sing-my-own-way-single/id564646954?ign-mpt=uo%3D4. All proceeds from the sale of this song support the programs of RTKids.

For more information about Rosie's Theater Kids, go to www.rosiestheaterkids.org.