playbill vip

Notes from the Director

     I am so thrilled that live theater is returning to Foran High School, and Mamma Mia, with its life-affirming story and joyous music feels like the right show for this moment.  A tale of friendships and family set to the timeless, memorable music of ABBA - what could be a better antidote to the trying times from which we’re emerging?

     As a teacher of performing arts, one of the things I enjoy most is witnessing student growth.  During the few first days of rehearsal, I usually find myself asking, “How will we ever be ready in time?” Experiencing those early rehearsals and watching the students develop allows me to appreciate the results even more. This year I’ve found that I also appreciate other areas of growth involved in theater. This includes watching the students become better collaborators, improve their concentration skills, and grow in empathy. I am thankful for being part of their journey. Our rehearsals were fun, filled with much laughter and silliness. I’m grateful for my students and their willingness to play. 

   None of this would have been possible without the support of our principal, Max Berkowitz, and our music, art and library-media supervisor, Amy Perras as well as our other building and district level administrators. Like many groups coming out of the pandemic, Mane Street Players relaunched live theater.  I am extremely grateful for our administration’s continued support as well as the extra resources that were made available this year to make this possible. 

I hope you enjoy the show and to quote an ABBA lyric, “Without a song or dance what are we?  So I say thank you for the music. For giving it to me.”   - Mr. Jason Stammen