This is the first musical I have ever directed and only the second show.
So much work went into this show.
I am so proud of all the work that these students did. We have been at this since before Christmas, listening to and learning music. Those kids stepped up and learned the music. I am especially proud of my sixth graders. I initially was reticent to allow sixth-graders in this show because of its content, but I am so glad I did. Those kids were at every rehearsal, singing their hearts out, learning dances, and they were the first group of kids to memorize all their lines.
My colleagues were often shocked and aghast when I told them what show we were doing. This show is HARD, and this show is HUGE. There is a reason it is not often performed.
I had a few cast members that left the show after the initial auditions, and the people that stuck around took charge and made changes to the parts and pulled it all back together.
Josh, Justin, Jordon, Darrien, Paige, Gwen, and Elijah even showed up to the Monday night choir practices.
They learned sword choreography, dance choreography, music in multiple parts, sound and light engineering and design, and even blocking. There has been literal blood, sweat, and tears pourind into this show. They have worked their fingers to the bone.
I could not do any of this without them, the kids.
Paige stepped up to understudy Esmeralda when or original actress was forced to drop out due to health. Olivia stepped up and learned all of Paige's parts so Paige could step into the role of Esmeralda. They did this all in three weeks.
Some of my colleagues have donated or loaned props or helped out with the lights, placed orders for me, or done a million other small jobs. I even have colleagues in other schools that have helped. Lakeview drama has loaned us a priest's robe for Father Dupin to wear.
I'd like to thank also, those non-students who have participated in some way. My husband built all the beautiful sets you see. My daughters and I sewed most of the costumes and painted the canvas backdrops. I have music teachers from all over the tri-county area here today in the orchestra and chorus.
But let us not forget the parents. You, the parents of these kids, likely listened to this music incessantly for months. You picked them up from practice (always on time, even) and brought them back. You bought costumes and props. You volunteered to sell tickets. You bought t-shirts. Thank you for letting me get to work with all these wonderful kids. They are all great kids. You have all done an amazing job raising them. I applaud you all.
This is my last production with SLHS. I wish all of you the very best.
