‘They Believe What They Have to Say’

Up With People? I know what you’re thinking: Good cause, good kids, big smiles. All this youthful optimism and love-for-your-fellow-man stuff must add up to a pretty saccharine show, right? Who do they think they’re kidding? I mean, this is sophisticated, urbane Orange County.

Wrong-o.

Now wait a minute. Am I editorializing here? After all, newspaper writers are supposed to be objective and dispassionate, right?

OK. True confessions time: I am an ex-Uppie.

During the 1976-77 tour, I traveled across the United States as an Up With People cast member. That’s why I know these kids believe in what they have to say. And they work hard at it.

During a year on the road, an Up With People cast spends long days traveling from town to town, rehearsing, moving back-breaking stage and sound equipment, doing community service in nursing homes, schools, hospitals and prisons, then wrapping it all up with a fast-paced, physically demanding show.

Every new town brings a new “host family”--strangers who give you meals, a place to sleep and a glimpse into the local culture. And no matter how tired you may be, you are expected to be an ambassador from your home town to theirs.

The surprising thing is that you generally are. Despite the long hours, the late nights and the rifts that naturally arise between 100 diverse people who spend every waking hour together, Up With People cast members really believe in their message.

And they want us to too.