A Midsummer Night's Dream holds a special place in my heart. It was my first exposure to Shakespeare as a young actor, and was the beginning of my lifelong devotion to producing Shakespeare's works. Shakespeare is good actor training. Shakespeare wrote "big" plays: big stories, big characters, and big emotions. There is enormous value for actors to stretch themselves to fill these huge often iconic roles. I also think there is much value in learning to deal with Shakespeare's heightened language. An actor who can succeed in a Shakespeare play can do anything.
It has been a wonderful experience working with the students here at CSHS. I admire their courage in tackling something new. I admire them for having the wherewithal to show up for auditions during the first week of school! My goal with the theatre program is that it becomes truly student led. We came a long way towards realizing that goal with this production. The student leadership during Midsummer has been amazing. From the Stage Managers to the individual Crew Heads – I have been utterly impressed by the dedication and ownership these students have exhibited. I must also say a special thank you to my Assistant Director, Jillian Volkmar, who truly helped me direct this production. Her creativity and ownership is present here as much as my own.
I believe passionately in the power of The Arts in education. I have seen firsthand what involvement in The Arts brings to young people. Thank you for being here tonight and helping us celebrate the first show of our season. Thank you for supporting College Station Drama. Thank you for supporting The Arts in College Station.
Thank you to all the Cast and Crew. Your dedication and professionalism are an inspiration to me on a daily basis. I am so very proud of the work you have done.
“We are such stuff
As dreams are made on, and our little life
Is rounded with a sleep.”
– William Shakespeare, The Tempest
Good Show to all.
Sincerely,
Greg Stanley
Director of Theatre
College Station High School
