Years ago, I heard of a show named Pippin. My husband worked crew on his high school’s production during his senior year and had spoken incessantly of the show’s greatness. The moment I was offered the job of theatre teacher and director, my sweet husband championed his "favorite show ever". I didn’t know it at all, though, so I passed and did The Wizard of Oz and continued to pass on it … promising I would do it “one day”. I even saw it last spring, twice in two days, and while it was a beautiful show, it was nowhere on any consideration list for a T-Time Production.
Obviously, until this year. I had a show selected but it wasn’t one I was crazy about but I knew this group would do it well. That wasn’t enough. They needed a challenge. I wanted them to have something they could never forget. I pored over scripts, music and YouTube videos of every show I could think of and then some. The kids sent in their suggestions: Phantom, Legally Blonde, Les Mis, Into the Woods … and then from one of my seniors, Annie Weir: “How about Pippin?”
While I love every production we’ve done for a myriad of reasons, this one is truly something special. The show carries glitz and glamour, gorgeous costumes and make up, acting skills and vocal ability you won't believe can come from high school students. But, beyond that, there are so many lessons and messages to be shared and we hope everyone in our audience, no matter experiences, age or background, can find something that relates to them; even if it’s just the reminder that there is so much beauty and meaning in everyday life and love.
In just seven short weeks, these students have brought together what could easily be our most challenging production. It has been a joy to work with every single one of them – cast and crew alike. As excited as I am to bring their work to an audience, it’s an experience I don’t want to end.
It’s a privilege to teach and direct a group with such talent, work ethic, determination and abilities. Every day I know just how blessed and fortunate I am to have this "job". This life. My own corner of the sky.
Each year, the musical marks the end of an adventure for our seniors as they take the stage (or backstage) for the final time (at least here at IHS). I can’t believe 4 years goes so quickly because it seems like we were just welcoming an excited freshmen class and 2016 was forever away. But, just like when they were freshmen, the seniors always leave a legacy. This group of seniors has grown together in this department, picking up incredible talent and personalities along the way. They will be especially difficult to say goodbye to but I have full faith the classes to follow will keep up the level of excellence that started 7 years ago.
For my seniors, this show is yours. As you embark on your future, may you find your own corner of the sky – one that brings you genuine happiness. For my freshmen, sophomore and juniors: I can’t wait to see what lies ahead in this corner of your world in the years to come.
I hope this show is as unforgettable to all of you as it has been to my husband these last 20 years! It's one I surely won't ever forget.
