Directors' Notes:
In The Heights is a musical theater production that speaks to this generation with its multilayered musical genres of hip-hop, rap, and multiple styles of Latin music. The characters are a multi generational, multi-cultural group of immigrants trying to find their way in a new place. Much like Oklahoma and Fiddler on the Roof were productions which spoke to their respective generations of how culture and tradition constantly evolve, the young people and elders of Washington Heights are struggling to decide which traditions to keep and which need to be let go in order to call this new place home.
This production has been a labor of love for me and musical director Robin Hughes. We are committed to produce shows at Mankato East that celebrate the many cultures and diversity of people that we see in the hallway and in our classrooms here every day. We would like to thank our administrators Jeff Dahline, Todd Waterbury and Dave Lutz, who show consistent support of the theatre program.
FInally, we would like say thank you to the following: Haley Hamilton, assistant director and all around jack of all trades; Sabrena Meyer, stage manager and stage crew chief; Dan Baker, East theatre alumni, for his expert sound work, and generally putting the technical component of East theatre back on track; Karen Sparks, costumer; Dalia Montejo, lights; the custodial staff at East who are ALWAYS helpful and kind; and all of the students who helped on crew and costuming, and the parents and guardians of the students for all the Saturday morning food, and who show their undying support of the Arts at East.
Jan Urtel - Director
Robin Hughes - Musical Director
