The Man Who Would Be a Tree

By Jefferson Jay

From 2014-2017, I had the pleasure of being the music therapist at a day center for adults with developmental disabilities. Every day, when I entered my workplace, I was greeted with huge smiles, grateful friends, and the occasional ovation. Although the feeling was mutual, I had no idea it would transform my life.

Rainbow Connections

My first day on the job, I met Bryce Johnson. He requested I play The Muppets’ classic, “Rainbow Connection.” He had a beautiful voice. We both sang and a bond was formed that continues to this day.

From left to right: Jefferson Jay, Chelse Voisard, Charlie Lizarraga, and Bryce Johnson performing at The Hilton Bayfront in 2015.

Bryce is a gifted singer, dancer, and actor. He carries a genuine kindness and warmth rarely seen in most circles. We played lots of music and several gigs together. Bryce delightfully crooned soul classics his mother Myra turned him onto as a kid. She passed away from cancer some years back. Myra was a very special woman. She asked me to keep an eye on Bryce and I promised I would. I feel blessed to have known Myra Johnson.

The Magic Begins

When my supervisors at the day center asked me to write and direct the holiday musical, I penned what eventually became our pilot episode of The Hunt for the Holiday Spirit. When auditions ended, Bryce had earned the role of The Great Christmas Tree. Bryce tore the house down with his brilliant rendition of “Christmas Tree Don’t Want to Be Cut Down.”

Bryce Johnson playing The Great Christmas Tree in 2014’s The Hunt for the Holiday Spirit live performance.

When we were looking for someone to sing it for our demo, I was ecstatic Bryce was available and interested. Bryce’s voice actor performance as the Tree was impeccable. Bringing our completed animated demo to his house and showing him for the first time has been one of the great thrills of this endeavor so far.

Now That’s What I’m Talking About!

Bryce watched our animation and slapped me a high five. “Yes, that’s what I’m talking about!” he exclaimed. “I killed it,” he continued. You sure did, Bryce. Thanks for being you, slaying, sharing your kindness, charisma, and your fabulous talent with us at The Hunt for the Holiday Spirit. You are a shining example of how we’re our best when all voices are heard. Thank you.

Sam Dupree (left), the talent behind Kid 1, with friend and colleague Bryce Johnson (right), the talent behind The Great Christmas Tree.