Working with all these bright and young cast/crew members has been such a rewarding experience as I work to become an educator. Every student has been eager to make difference in the musical by putting his or her best foot forward at every rehearsal. The way they have come together to create something so artistic and outstanding has been a magical experience to watch.
It was interesting to see the actors develop into their roles. During casting, the roles seemed to pick the actors and as time went on, that statement only rang more true. The cast has come so far in their music, acting, and dancing abilities. With every rehearsal it became more apparent that the crew was destined to make this play a hit.
When we were in the process of learning new music, I was impressed by how quickly the students caught on. From the beginning, I could tell that this show was going to be special. I can honestly say that being the music director was a breeze thanks to the hard work of the ladies and gentlemen on stage tonight.
While the audience sees the journey of Wendy, and Peter Pan in Neverland, I got to see the entire cast and crews journey in building a trusting relationship that allowed for the creation of a worthwhile production. This show would be nothing without the hard work of each and every student that is on stage and behind the scenes.
Hannay Shafer, music director
Being new to Noe Middle School, this show has been a wonderful opportunity for me to get to know our talented, skilled and hard working performing arts students. Having taught both choir and drama for ten years, it's great to have the chance to stay involved in school musical theatre.
For me, working with students on artistic pursuits is so much more than a job. There's nothing quite as rewarding as seeing students from all backgrounds learn, imrpove and excel on the stage. The lessons learned here will serve them well for the rest of their lives regardless of the path they choose in the future.
I would like to thank all of the students and their families that have welcomed me to the Noe family. Transitions of arts teachers can sometimes be difficult, but I have found this to be a great fit and look forward to many years of wonderful music being made here.
James Russell Cooper, director
Last year when Mrs Jennings and I chose Peter Pan as this year's musical, we had no idea how we would tackle the challenge of characters who fly, that we would have so many talented students try out and ultimately be cast, or that she would be offered an opportunity to work in another district this year, and I would be working without her.
This is the biggest cast I have ever worked with at Noe and, as such, I was daunted by having to direct AND choreograph this year. As it turns out, the answer to prayers came with our new choir teacher, Mr. Russell Cooper, who has been tireless in his devotion to the students and the show, and who brought with him not only directing talent but technical theatre expertise as well.
I am so grateful for his taking the helm of this ship, and so excited to see all of our students take off in this magical production.
Julie Evans, choreogrpher
