DIRECTOR'S NOTES:
People come to this play believing it’s about a calendar and a group of women who take their clothes off. Spoiler alert. This play is actually about community and camaraderie, charity and change, compassion and courage. Lots and lots of courage. And, yes, it’s also a story about a calendar and a group of women who take their clothes off. That it’s based on a true story makes it even more endearing.
In the age of Facebook and Instagram ad nauseum, it seems every facet of our lives is exposed and open to public scrutiny. Seems everybody these days has a cellphone/camera. (For obvious reasons, there will be no photos or videos taken during this performance.) In our most vulnerable moments, we need to know that we are supported, that those closest to us have our backs, that we have surrounded ourselves with folks we can trust. For my directorial debut, I believe I’ve done just that.
This is community theater: the closeness you see between the actors onstage mirrors the friendships you’ll find offstage. These are people with nine-to-five jobs, retired folks, and life-long theater-lovers mixing with seasoned professionals. This is as supportive a team as you’ll get.
The cast and crew made my job easier than it had a right to be and for this, I’m thankful.
I’m forever grateful to Debbi Terrio, stage manager extraordinaire, for her expert advice, her mad skills, and her warm encouragement. It’s Debbi’s voice in my head when I hear “You’ve got this.”
I’m blessed with a talented, theater-loving family. From Justin Wodicka, whose scenic design and watercolor prints brought a concept to life, to my husband Scott, who probably never imagined his retirement years would be spent running production and constructing elaborate sets.
Every member of this beautiful team plays an important role, and my heartfelt gratitude goes out to all. I’d like to send special thanks to my courageous six: Laura, Lee, Dianne, Lynn, Susan, and Beverly. Thank you. I know what it’s like, having had a role in the play: Been there, done that, took off the tee shirt.
PRESIDENT'S NOTES:
We are grateful to be back at the Wood, ready to entertain you through these trying times. We have a full year for you, making up shows postponed because of Covid. We started with Radium Girls, this past September and will be showcasing School of Rock, Forbidden Broadway, Calendar Girls, and the Senior Seminar.
Our GFCT talent will be back singing with the Jazz Band in City Park in August and our Experimental Theatre Group performing a new play reading. We’re proud to be back with a diverse and exciting schedule this season.
I hope you will consider becoming a member of GFCT or supporting us with a donation. Live theater is expensive to produce. The rising costs of royalties, sound, lights, costumes, sets and directors make it impossible to cover costs from ticket sales alone. Whatever method you choose, your help in keeping us alive is greatly appreciated. If you’re unable to donate please consider helping backstage with props, costumes, stage managing, etc. We are always in need of those crucial people. Please check out our website www.gfcommunitythreatre.org
to join us. Now sit back and prepare for evenings of fun as we bring you our 87th season. -Joann Searles, President
