Welcome to Bikini Bottom! This show has been such a huge under taking for everyone involved, but we have all been working so hard to bring it all together. I could not be more proud of the students and fellow staff who have put in so many countless hours into this production. This show is unlike any other musical I have vocal directed, and it has been the most fun. From teaching Pearl how to belt the biggest notes, to teaching SpongeBob, Patrick, and Sandy's tight harmonies it has been such a great time and great learning experience for our students as well. I've loved seeing each individual flourish and shine in their own unique ways and bringing them out of their shells. I want to thank the students for being patient and willing to put in all of the hard work even when multiple cards were stacked against us (weather & shortened rehearsal schedule). I also want to thank my directing team and fellow staff that have worked so hard on all of this & have sacrificed countless hours. I hope you enjoy this lovely adaptation of SpongeBob & can leave today taking away the relevance of current world issues sprinkled in. Thank you for giving me a purpose and a place to share my creative light and passion. I love you all so so much!!
Noelani Howland
As someone who spent most of their adolescence in the 90s, I was pleased to take on a show that felt so nostalgic. As a fan of the unconventional, it was a treat to work on a newer show full of songs written by amazing musical talents. I think this show gave a lot of students a chance to rekindle their love of the performing arts, something I hope they never lose.
Linny West
With SpongeBob, most love it or hate it there are few in between. I was not excited to be going to Bikini Bottom! I was in the “hate camp” and had to be convinced to do this show. When I read the note from the writer of this show, I was swayed quickly. Labeled as the show most likely to fail, it surprised everyone when it became a huge success, even winning Tony Awards.
This show has been one of the top 3 hardest I have directed. SO. Many Moving Parts! I am extra grateful for and proud of all who had a hand in this production.
Thanks to The Crane Family and the Dabrowa family for helping in many facets. Michelle and Sarah are our theatre “moms” behind the scenes and have lead the charge for a parent booster club, organizing cast dinners and helping wherever we need, often without even being asked. Thank you Sarah and Michelle and your families!
What a treat to have Scott and Chris Schnabel “back” from my early years as a teacher--helping once again. Stephanie Edwards (2012) has also returned to us with her scenic expertise! Words can not express my gratitude to Hobart Theatre Alumni who continue to give of their immense talents. Caitie Ramirez(now our costume designer-’18) Noelani Howland(now vocal director-’20), Matt Hankosky(tech/video), Ron Seeley(Lighting and Set Designer-’02) and Chris Conner(technical director), These individuals have become invaluable to this department and these kids. I am also so very grateful to have Linny West as my Assistant Director and Choreographer, as well as my friend. How fun it is to watch our girls grow up together in the world we love-two only children now theatre “sisters.”! As I enter my 25th year as director at Hobart, I look back and can’t believe it has flown by so quickly. There are times when I look in the mirror and wonder why I continue leading this program. The hours are long and the stress is big, but the smiles and pride I see in the eyes of the children and families I work with--make me see why I continue. Theatre is powerful, magical and can bring joy to the masses. It is an honor to be part of this process.
There is a line in the second act that rings so true. “We may only have 7 minutes left, but we can make it the best 7 minutes ever!” If all of us apply this to our lives and relationship’s imagine what a difference it could make in our communities and world. The world we live in is tough and stressful and sometimes we don’t have much hope. If we take what time we do have and truly make it the best we can, what a profound impact we can have on our world.
Thank you for spending 180 plus minutes with us today! We hope that it has been the best so far--and that the smiles and happiness you feel will be a start for even more joy and happiness in your future. Cathy Nelson
