A message from the Director
It is a pleasure to welcome you all to Manalapan High School’s production of
The Wizard of Oz!
From the day L. Frank Baum's novel The Wonderful Wizard of Oz first appeared in 1900, it has captivated audiences around the world. Most of us have seen the iconic 1939 MGM movie so many times that we know the story and songs by heart. Like all great entertainment, the story resonates. We see ourselves in the characters and wish we possessed the powers, the brains, the heart, and the courage to make our own dreams come true.
I am excited that as my third production directing at Manalapan High School we are doing a show that is dear to my heart. Throughout our rehearsal process, I have seen the students grow both individually and as an ensemble. They have embraced their characters and taken on the challenge to bring them to life. I am so proud of the hard work and dedication the students have shown throughout our journey together down the yellow brick road.
When putting on a show of this size and scale, there are many obstacles to face. Thankfully I am lucky to have an outstanding production team to help me make this all possible. First I would like to thank my technical director Andrew Ciraulo. Thank you for supporting me throughout this process. We did it! Next I would like to thank my choreographer Brittany Cohen. You are incredible and I don’t know what I would do without you. Your choreography has truly brought the show to life. To my vocal director Adam Glenn, thank you for all of your hard work to prepare the students to have an excellent vocal performance. To my music director Jose Maunez, thank you for all of your advice, support and for leading our pit orchestra to make the beautiful music for the show. To my costume designers Donna and Joann you ladies are amazing. Thank you for making the actors look outstanding on stage. Next, I want to thank all of the parents who volunteered their time, none of this would be possible without you. To the Manalapan High School administration, thank you for the opportunity to direct this show and all of your continued support.
Finally I want to thank my outstanding cast and crew- you all are
OZ-SOME!
It's been quite a journey, and it’s bittersweet that we bring the curtain down on another season of theatre for the Manalapan Drama Club. I'm going to miss the mix of laughter and excitement that filled our rehearsals. I'm going to miss the creative energy of the cast, the enthusiasm of our stage managers and crew, and the collaborative spirit of the entire production team. And to the seniors students in our cast, I thank you for your years of commitment to the program and I wish you all the best in the next chapter in your lives!
I hope we make each of you feel the magic of being “over the rainbow.” Enjoy the show and thank you for coming!
-Amanda Colonna
