From the Production and Music Director:
When I began teaching, in 1984, Annie was a relatively new show. So much so that (much as is the case with Hamilton today) my students were obsessed with it. It was all they wanted to sing. The effect on me as a new teacher was to say that I would NEVER produce that show. I was sick of it! Well....never say NEVER! It has actually been a delight to revist this show after so many years of intentional avoidance. It is a natural choice for middle school students and I have found myself genuinely engaged by the music and the story.
First and foremost, I want to thank our students who have risen to the occasion beautifully. We put some pretty intense demands on them (as is necessary to produce something of quality and something that causes them to have pride in their work) and we know this. Thank you, young friends, for understanding that we only want you to be your best.
I must also thank the army of folks who help bring a production like this into reality. First, our staff of directors: Mrs. Steelman, Ms. Lappano, Mrs. Bertone, Mrs. Young, Ms. Weichel, Mrs. Zoladz and Mr. Stevenson--I have no adequate words to thank you for your endless hours of work on this production. So, a simple and very large "THANK YOU" will have to do. Our parents are the greatest! Even though we have a great directorial staff, we could never do this without the help our parent volunteers. Thank you, as well.
I hope you enjoy our performance of Annie today.
Floyd Rawleigh
From the Drama Director:
My first memories of Annie are of watching the iconic Carol Burnett play Miss Hannigan back in 1982. She was one of those characters you just loved to hate. We all have our favorite characters, and after today’s show, I guarantee that you are going to have a new favorite or two. This cast is amazing, and they have made the characters their own. They have worked tirelessly memorizing their lines, songs and dances. Their strong effort, ability to accept constructive feedback, good sense of humor and excellent team work have created a very special show and theater family.
I love the idea that there is something for everyone in theater--art, costumes, music, technology, lights, sounds, props, acting, etc. This is a show where the students do it all. They have had a “Hard Knock Life” at DMS for months while putting this show together. The parent volunteers have worked together to build and paint the sets, sew and iron costumes, bring meals to hungry kids, photograph rehearsals, drive students back and forth, and work on various committees. We couldn't do this without all of you.
While there are many incredible people I need to thank, I must give a special shout-out to my fabulous student directors: Emma Harper, Danielle Kucera, Ariannia Ost-Prisco, Chloe Nedvad, Justin Smith, Kate Trimble, and Muhil Vaseekaran. You’re the best! I adore each of you for your never ending commitment. Of course, I must applaud the wonderful work of my good friends and fellow directors: Floyd, Deb, Barb, Price, Jane, Laurey, and Allison. I continue to learn much from each of you. And finally, a big thank you to my family for all of their trips to Wawa and DMS, for painting and building, and listening to me go on and on about Annie for months. I truly appreciate all that you did.
After each rehearsal (even the really late ones), I would go home humming or singing a different song from Annie. I bet you, too, will leave with a song in your head. Sit back and relax…you’re going to love this show!
Mary Jane Steelman
