Naples student performers see New York sights ahead of Macy's Thanksgiving Parade

Naples

Alexis Anand, 13, practices during a voice lesson Friday, Oct. 20, 2017, in Fort Myers. She will perform with Camp Broadway at the 91st annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City.

Naples High senior Luis Nicacio and Royal Palm Academy eighth-grader Alexis Anand are about to live their dream of performing in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

The pair have been in New York since Saturday, visiting the city’s famed sites and rehearsing with their respective troupes.

Luis, 18, will be playing tenor saxophone with the All-American Marching Band, and Alexis, 13, will be performing with Camp Broadway.

Luis Nicacio spends time exploring New York City before his performance in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade Wednesday, Nov. 22, 2017.

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Luis arrived Saturday from Tampa, where he was competing at the marching band state championships. Naples High finished 14th out of 15.

Luis spent Sunday with his Macy’s bandmates touring the city on the glass-walled The Ride bus, shopping for souvenirs and visiting the One World Observatory at the World Trade Center.

“It’s the most beautiful sight I’ve ever seen,” Luis said of the 360-degree rooftop view.

Luis raised more than $2,500 through his GoFundMe page to pay for the trip. He said the opportunity to represent Naples High School and Collier County at a national event watched by millions is humbling.

“Despite the fact that I won’t be with my family on Thanksgiving, I’m still very excited,” he said. “It’s such an honor being a part of this band.”

Both Luis and Alexis grew up watching the parade on TV.

Alexis, who is traveling with her family, said she is happy to be in her favorite city with her loved ones. Since arriving, she has spent most of her time rehearsing but also has made time for fun family activities, such as ice skating in Bryant Park.

Alexis is looking forward to Wednesday, her 14th birthday, when she will tour NBC Studios and watch the Macy’s balloons be blown up. And, of course, she is looking forward to performing on national TV.

“I’m feeling very excited,” she said.