Just after auditions, in late January, a close friend chuckled as he told me, "ED, you've picked a heck of a time to produce and direct your first musical! During a worldwide pandemic!" He wasn't wrong...
After sharing in the students' heartbreak at losing Bye, Bye Birdie last year, and the subsequent retirement of our long-time director, I was determined to make sure these students had the opportunity to perform a musical in person, and take every possible precaution to do it in a safe and responsible way during a trying and uncertain time. While searching for potential shows, I discovered one based on the TV spots that I watched as a kid on Saturday mornings... Schoolhouse Rock. And the idea was born.
CONGRATUTLATIONS to my staff colleagues, the McKeesport Area School District, a generous and supportive group of parents, and most importantly, a group of students that I will NEVER forget. My first cast... Despite the odds being stacked againt us, WE DID IT!
I would like to personally acknowledge a few people for their constant support and guidance throughout this process.
- Our principal at Founders' Hall, Mr. Tom Knight. From the first discussion Tom and I had about doing a musical this year, he was totally in my, and in our students' corner! "Anything you need..." He certainly held up his end of that deal! Thank you, Tom.
- I was introduced to Dr. Jane Coughenour early in the process and she explained how our funding would work... She is STILL explaining it to me, but she has been a steadfast champion for us and a resource to me since we started. Thank you, Jane.
- Drew DeCarlo served as producer for our musical for many years. Without his agreeing to stay on as Music Director, making himself available to me with advice and a sympathetic ear, we would not have made it. Thank you Drew.
- Our former director and colleague, Jeanne Gallo. When people speak of having "Big shoes to fill"... Let me assure you, the shoes I find myself in are enormous. These kids never had the chance to say the words I offer you now (and please accept this from ALL of us): THANK YOU MS. GALLO!
- Thank you to my colleagues... my FRIENDS on our musical staff. It's a joy to work with good, reliable people; it's an honor to do so with people you genuinely like! Thank you guys!
- These kids... These joyful, exuberant, talkative, vulnerable, and sometimes brimming with confidence kids. What joy you have brought to MY life... Thank you all from the depths of my heart!
- Speaking of kids... my son Oliver. A thirteen year old seventh grader at another school district. BUT and integral part of our production here. He has been accepted by the kids in our cast, and he has accepted them just the same. More than just a helper, he is a constant reinforcement to me personally. "You can do this, Dad." "It's gonna be great, Dad!" Having someone in your corner, through thick or thin... that means so much. I am blessed to have him in my life, and with me through this grueling process. I love you, Ollie.
- Finally, to each of YOU... my deepest thanks for supporting these students, our school district, and our ongoing efforts.
Edward R. Moore
