All good things must come to an end…
Fifteen years directing the shows at Concordia has been a major part of my life for 25% of my existence on earth. I have been impacted by so many students, parents, and staff that it is impossible to calculate the impact they have had on my life. The contact that I have with some students from years ago, some now married with kids, is a tremendous gift for which I will always be grateful.
So, welcome to HELLO, DOLLY! It is not a coincidence that I chose this show to go out on. I love it! It is one of my favorite “old chestnut” musicals. I have a long association with the show and it is only title in our time here that we have repeated a title. Our 2011 production is one of my fondest Concordia memories.
Some of the seniors in this year’s production were freshmen in our production of LES MISERABLES- the last show that we rehearsed pre-pandemic. To be sure, the pandemic changed how people gather and there are few “gatherings” like what needs to happen in the cast of a show that has hopes of successfully telling a story. The example of dedication this year’s seniors has provided to the younger cast members is invaluable. I am confident that some of the younger students have been shown what it takes to craft the tools to keep the tradition going.
At the core of my time at Concordia is the collaboration with Michelle Garrity and Peter Klemp. It is the least selfish artistic collaboration of my life and now of course goes well beyond that; they are both a part of my family. A few years ago we added “Ringo” in our costumer Leah Skorupa, proving to be one of the greatest decisions in the history of decisions. So many other artists have chipped in over the years: Craig Lee, Braden Larson, Carol Wisner, Jay Srygley, and Logan Ackley, to name a few.
Many of the parent relationships that I developed occurred while building sets. From the “Dirt Room” to the Shed, we have cobbled together many items that were to be seen for 3 or 4 times in low light from a long way away. Craig, our scenic painter, informed me some pieces would no longer support any more layers of paint. There are too many to mention, but some of you know who you are. Thanks. Parents have always been at the core of getting a show on its feet at Concordia and my thanks go out to everyone that every fed us, found a prop, or painted something brown.
The unsung star for the last 15 years has been my wife, Kathy. It helps that she is earth’s most-patient person. Every curtain we ever used in the old gym was sewn by Kathy. That tradition is also evident again this year ranging from curtains to awnings and microphone packs.
So, it’s time for me to turn the page to the next chapter. I will look back at my time at Concordia fondly for the rest of my days.
Thanks.
Jim
