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It's impossible to explain the roller coaster that is directing a musical. Each show is a unique ride with impossible to predict twists and turns. There are always moments of extreme excitement, those of total frustration, and sometimes even a little fear.  Something is always pushing you towards the end, and although you can't see the end, you learn time and time again that it will always leave you wanting more. What's the next ride? Where will it take me? When can we do this again?

I have been directing musicals in some form or fashion for almost 20 years of my life, and it's something I know I will continue to be a part of for as long as I am able. Each show has been carefully and beautifully crafted to share a message, to touch another soul, to make you laugh, to make you cry, to make you think, to teach you something valuable, to make you feel alive. I can honestly say that I learn something new with each experience, even when directing a show I have worked on previously. There is something special about each and every one if them.

Godspell has always had a special place in my heart. I performed in this show when I was in college and then went on to direct it multiple times in multiple spaces with many different young people over the years. This show is very unique. It allows for each cast to create their own storytelling experience for the audience so that it truly becomes their show. No one has or will ever see this show performed the same way twice. It's what keeps audiences coming back time and time again to see this show.....to experience this story....and what a story it is!

If there is something that I have taken from this story each time I see it or direct it, it is to love. If there is a mantra that I can instill in my students from this production, it is to love. If I can send a message through these amazing performers to each audience member at each show, it is to love. Love everyone. Accept everyone for who they are, and celebrate them. Celebrate their differences. We live in a world that teaches our children to be selfish. Advertisements, television shows, social media outlets and more attempt to shape us into what the world thinks we should be through the eyes of others. Judgement is passed on anyone who doesn't "fit in"... whatever that means. People argue constantly about who's political views are correct and learn to hate those who do not share their views. It is a difficult world. I can't imagine being a young person in this day and age, and I constantly worry about my own children and the challenges they are facing each day. What if we started to use love as the force that influences our words and actions in everything that we do? How would that change the world around us?

I can't imagine that there is a better musical out there to not only be my first musical at Morgan County High School, but our first musical in this beautiful new space. The community of Madison, your love for the arts, the support you show these students and everyone else around through the One Morgan campaign, proves that love is all around us in this city. I am so thankful for a community that values the arts in education. You are teaching these young people through not only your words but your generous actions that you believe in them and support them, whatever the cost.  I am proud to be a part of this story, and I plan on being a part of it for many years to come.

Now, buckle up and make sure that you keep all hands and feet inside the car at all times. Keep your eyes, and your hearts, open. This is going to be a ride that you will never forget, nor will you want to. Enjoy our beautiful production of Godspell.

Lenae Rose