As I moved into East Lake High, Brad Brady (former drama teacher) told me the season had already been chosen in hopes of making my transition smoother….and it did! To be honest, I was quite intimidated by the title All My Sons and the author Arthur Miller (who wouldn’t be?). But after being involved with the dedicated and driven students; I am so excited to have had the opportunity to delve into this American Classic and share this heart wrenching story.
East Lake High School has been very welcoming as I begin this journey. The principal, Carmela Haley, my performing art colleagues; Rob Knabel, Ian Black, and Melissa Wight, and the plant operations staff, Chris O’Toole and Jonas have been so helpful and accommodating. The East Lake Drama Boosters have been very supportive as we all transition into this new year as well.
I would also be remiss if I didn’t “shout out” Brad Brady. He is a hard act to follow and has created a well-oiled machine….and I don’t want to mess it up. He has taken on the building aspect of the show and been the guiding force to what you see before you! (The house deserves a round of applause, hint! Hint!) I am ever so grateful to Brad and all the Mom’s and Dad’s that constructed and created what you see before you. “It takes a village!” Thank you!
This is not an easy story to digest. The question arises, “What would you do in the same situation?” We all put self and family first, finances second, reputation third and generally everything else falls where it will. The Keller family has suffered and continues to suffer.
I am so proud of the cast and crew of this production. It is never easy to create older, complicated and believable characters...but I believe they have succeeded. To the seniors, Cristian Torres, Cameron McLeod, Danny Cusimano, Julia LaPierre, Julianne Shipley, Jacob Ramirez, Jake Bansberg, Becky Fritz, Abbey Nicholson, Jacob Bertke, Christian Ashmore, Anna Shurdha, and Angelina Huitt; thank you for bringing your talent, maturity, expertise, kindness and love of theatre to this production! (I am sure Mr. Brady is very proud!)
I hope everyone enjoys the show! Be sure to come back in January for Elf Jr. and then in March for Hello Dolly! The arts are alive and well here at East Lake High School! Remember to share your time, money and talents with the program. We need you!
I look forward to meeting you in the lobby,
Kim Florio
