Serious chops: Officials find creative outlets in music, acting
Lakeland Commissioner Jim Atkinson played drums with his former band, The Dantones, at Lafayette’s and other local spots. The group broke up two years ago when one of the members moved to Florida. (Courtesy Jim Atkinson)
Many municipal officials portray a very buttoned-up character by day carrying out the serious duties of managing a city, a department or school district.
But away from work, some let loose, whether it’s rocking out in their local bands like Lakeland Commissioner Jim Atkinson and the suburb’s schools Superintendent Ted Horrell or acting, singing and dancing in local stage productions like Bartlett Parks and Recreation Director Paul Wright.
The musical side gigs provide an escape from the pressures of high-stress jobs in government. A way to put aside the grind of daily decisions and trade them for the melodies, notes and two-steps of performing.
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Ted Horrell Jim Atkinson Paul Wright City of Lakeland City of Bartlett Bartlett Performing Arts & Conference Center Subscriber OnlyIt’s GivingTuesday week! Will you join the celebration?
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Michael Waddell
Michael Waddell is a native Memphian with more than 20 years of professional writing and editorial experience, working most recently with The Daily News and High Ground News.
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