First, let me say how thankful I am that you have chosen to come and support Greenville Theater Works. I have been involved with five GTW shows, this is my second opportunity to direct a show for GTW, and my first musical. It is an honor to be given that opportunity. I love this art form, and love sharing it with you. I remember standing alone in this beautiful theater a few months ago, I was excited, the stage lights were glowing, and the silence was waiting to be filled. I was a little emotional, looking at that big stage and thinking through all the possibilities. Then, it was suddenly filled with these wonderful, talented individuals. Their combined love for this work filled this space with something so much more special than I ever thought it could be. I hope you can feel that radiating off the stage, because you are the reason we all keep doing this again and again. Our hearts desire is to connect with each of you, and to tell you a story that is unique and beautiful. This exact show will never happen again, and we are privileged that you are here to share it with us.
Fiddler on the Roof is special to me because it’s about family, community, hope, love, and the compassion we should show our fellow human beings. It tells a story that we can each identify with on some level. As a parent, my heart is touched in a different way than when I saw this as a child. A show that can tell you a different story at different points of your life is magic. My ultimate hope is that each audience member leaves this theater carrying with them some new little, beautiful thing the story gave them. Then, it’s their turn to take that little beautiful thing out into the world and share it. Thank you for being a part of this unique and wonderful moment.
I want to thank my stage manager, Avery, he is so much more than a stage manager, and he doesn’t get the credit he deserves. Im so thankful for the team of creatives who directed the choreography, Ashley, and musical director (who also happens to have married me), Micah, who both honestly did all the hard work for me. Ariel, who just jumped in at a moments notice, and added so much to the team. So much respect for Beth and Kat who keeps the cast dressed and with props in the actor’s hands. The cast and crew were perfect in every way, and their inner magic is what brought this show to life. I’m honored that they all allowed me the opportunity to work with them.
Heather McBay
