playbill vip

Hello! Thank you for spending your evening with us. We’ve all worked hard to bring the world of Evermore to your doorstep.

The idea for The Enchanted Mirror began when I started at Altadena Arts Magnet in September. On my first day, Principal Dr. Hill assigned me to create a play—a place where all students could shine, not just the older kids.

After sifting through scripts that didn’t quite fit, I decided to write an original piece. Inspired by the surprising, darker side of the original Pinocchio, The Enchanted Mirror was born! But there was a long journey from the first draft to you reading this playbill.

First and foremost, none of this would have been possible without the incredible support of Dr. Dana Hill, who encouraged me to let my imagination soar. Altadena Arts Magnet is a truly unique place, and this experience has been just as special.

So many generous people helped us get here, more than I can name, but please know I’m incredibly grateful for every single one of you. Special thanks go to Lita Haido, Bonita Moore, Vivian Alfonso, and Dr. Hill, who helped with auditions (we had over 80 kids from kindergarten to fourth grade!) and to Jamie Westfall for her inspired costume designs, Nicholle Cash, Jessica Olympia and Leah Slemmons for makeup and hair, Anna Yeager for this amazing playbill, and Labid Aziz, who was always willing to lend a hand.

Parents and guardians, you are the true rockstars. You gave so much of your time to a project that demanded more than expected, helping your kids memorize two plays, put together costumes, gather props, build sets, provide snacks, and assist with managing rehearsals and performances. My faith in humanity has truly been renewed by meeting and working with all of you. Thank you so much.

I also want to recognize those whose extraordinary generosity made this production possible. Grant Babbitt brought Evermore to life through his creative projections.

And to my invaluable Assistant Directors, Rubi Lopez and Ashley Babbitt—your contributions and dedication went above and beyond, and I am in your debt. I am a better human for having worked with you. Thank you!

Now, enough of that. On with the show! We put a lot of heart into The Enchanted Mirror, and I hope you enjoy the wild ride as much as I have.

With gratitude,

Mr. Tonoccus McClain
(Mr. T)