From Spirit Tunnels to the Stage—The Power of Community and Affirmation

There’s something magical about being surrounded by people who uplift you, cheer for you, and remind you that you have everything you need within you to succeed. I was reminded of this recently while watching The Jennifer Hudson Show and learning about their tradition of a “spirit tunnel.”

Before every interview, Jennifer’s guests are greeted by her staff with cheers, high-fives, affirmations, and a customized chant as they walk through a “spirit tunnel.” This moment pumps them up, fills them with confidence, and sets the tone for the rest of their time on the show.

According to an article on the Jennifer Hudson Show website, this tradition began as a way to make guests feel welcomed, loved, and celebrated—and it works.

Watching this reminded me of a similar tradition we had almost 20 years ago on the national tour of Disney’s The Lion King.

The Spirit of Affirmation on Tour

During my time performing in The Lion King, we had a special ritual for new cast members before their first show. As they prepared to step into their roles, all of us—the cast, crew, makeup artists, orchestra, stage managers, and puppeteers—would come together to guide and celebrate them.

Here’s how it worked:
-New cast members walked blindfolded down a dimly lit hallway, led by our Mufasa, Rufus Bond Jr.
-Our South African cast members sang hymns as the rest of us hummed along, filling the air with a sense of reverence and unity.
-As they walked, we whispered affirmations, gratitude, and words of encouragement.
-At the end of the hallway, their blindfolds were removed, revealing all of us gathered to welcome them with open arms and encouragement.

This ritual wasn’t just symbolic. It was transformative. It reminded them—and all of us—that they had everything they needed to succeed. They were enough. The tools, the preparation, and the talent were already within them.

That tradition still inspires me today. It was more than a ritual; it was a testament to the power of community and affirmation.

How This Connects to My Works

In my business, I strive to recreate this same experience for the educators, students, and leaders I work with. Whether I’m facilitating a workshop, curating a dance residency, or mentoring teachers, my goal is to help people see the gifts they already possess and empower them with tools to nurture those gifts.

Much like the Lion King ritual and Jennifer Hudson’s spirit tunnel, my work is about creating a supportive environment that:

-Affirms Strengths: I remind educators and students that they already have the talent and drive they need to succeed.
-Provides Tools: While the gifts are already there, I help them refine their craft, advocate for their programs, and grow professionally.
-Builds Community: The magic happens in the community—the support, shared experiences, and encouragement that allow people to thrive.

Why Affirmation and Preparation Matter

Both the Lion King ritual and the spirit tunnel on the Jennifer Hudson Show highlight an essential truth: we work harder and better when we feel supported. Confidence isn’t just about believing in yourself; it’s about knowing that others believe in you too.

When educators feel affirmed and have the tools to succeed, they can pour that same confidence into their students. When students feel supported, they can take creative risks and discover their unique gifts. It’s a ripple effect of empowerment.

A Tradition Worth Remembering

Seeing Jennifer Hudson’s team uphold this tradition reminded me of how transformative it can be to facilitate meaningful experiences for others. It’s a practice that’s as relevant in classrooms and dance studios as it is backstage or on a talk show set.

So, whether I’m working with a dance teacher to refine their curriculum, helping a principal advocate for arts funding, or guiding students through a creative journey, my goal remains the same: to remind them that they are enough and to provide the tools and support to let their gifts shine.

And to Jennifer Hudson’s team: thank you for continuing to carry this tradition of affirmation forward. It’s a beautiful reminder of the power of uplifting one another.

Let’s Build Something Together

If you’re a teacher, principal, or arts leader looking for ways to empower your students or team, let’s connect. I’d love to help you create those transformative moments that inspire and uplift.

Because, like I learned almost 20 years ago: we all have everything we need—we just need a community to help us see it.