playbill vip

“I can’t wait to see the new Beauty and the Beast!”  “I saw the previews of Sing, and it looks absolutely amazing!”  It is common for us to be excited about seeing one of our favorite stories on the stage or screen, or have strong anticipation for a new film the for which the promotions have prepared us.  In our world, it is somewhat uncommon to arrive at a venue with no expectations for what we are about to see.  That, however, was my situation this summer as I walked into a theatre with students to see a Texas theatre troupe perform Big Fish.  I was immediatelzy connected to the music, and soon I was drawn completely into the story.  It was extremely well done, but was also a story with some real substance.  I have heard it said many times that life is not a Disney movie and that not every situation has a happy ending.  While it may not be a happy ending, sometimes difficult situations can end happily.  I believe that is true in Big Fish.  Many of you in the audience will have no preconceived ideas about this show, and it makes me very excited that you will have the opportunity to experience this story the way I did, for the first time.  I fell in love with it, and I hope you do as well.

Spring musical productions are significant both in manpower and finances, and every year our friends rise to the occasion.  All of our MainStage productions are self-funded, and the advertisers and sponsors in your program make these shows possible.  Of course, we would not have production without amazing actors on stage, but there are many other heroes that you may not know.  With financial support from a French Broad Electric Bright Ideas Grant, Master Carpenter Terry Lewis and his students constructed the elaborate set you see on stage.  As you watch the program, you will see what I mean by elaborate.  This is the most costume heavy show we have ever produced, and that has been headed by our “Costume Queen,” Carolyn McKinney, and her sidekick Caitlin Duncan.  When we need help thinking outside the box to create show elements, we can count on our friend Jennifer Parker who, for this show, we can call our “Elephant Tamer.”  Some of Mitchell County’s best musicians are seated at the foot of the stage providing accompaniment to this musical journey.   The list goes on and on with students who create and run our lighting, sound, and projection elements, student and adult stage managers who make sure everything is happening backstage as it should, and amazing friends who make sure your experience as an audience member is memorable.  It takes a village to produce a show, and I am so thankful for my village!

Sit back and close your eyes as the music begins.  When you hear the first actor speak, open them and allow yourself to be transported into this story of tall tales, family, love, and inspiration.  Thank you for being a part of our theatre program, and we hope you leave tonight excited to share with your friends and family about a show they need not miss!

Musically, 

Greg Franklin