A NOTE FROM THE DIRECTOR
Venturing “Into the Woods” was one of the most memorable directing experiences I have had since I, along with my Co-Director Anthony Spaldo, reinstituted the Drama Club over 6 years ago at St. Mary. It is hard to believe that so many shows have already come and gone, yet this show shines brightly in my mind for many reasons. The cast of students on the stage, the people behind the scenes and the efforts of you, the families and friends of this school, have been nothing short of unending and amazing. There were many times it seemed the “path had strayed from” us as we made our way through this musical, but seeing the final production makes me realize how clear the path was all along due to the talented young men and women you will see on the stage tonight.
As has been my custom since I started with the SMHS Drama Club as its acting Director, I would like to acknowledge each senior in the Cast and Crew. I want to thank them for their dedication to this program, whether it is for one, two, or more shows with us.
Janea Kelty: Janea came in four years ago with many great talents before we started performing musicals again in the spring. She worked her way through the ranks as a leading lady on the stage with a stunning voice and strong desire to perfect every movement she makes. Janea not only balances Drama Club, but three other sports throughout the year as well, which speaks volumes of how much she is willing to take on; yet she finds a way to excel in each of her endeavors. Without Janea, many of the musicals we have performed would have been difficult to cast. It is bittersweet that Janea now graduates from this last production and moves on to Felician University to play Basketball, but I hope she is able to take away memories that will last her for a lifetime. From arguing in a courtroom over the innocence of a young man, to dancing on top of a doghouse as Snoopy, to her final act as Cinderella, I hope Janea had a magical time with this group and continues to show her love for the arts by using her unending God-given talents. Thank you Janea for your drive to succeed in all you do, especially for this Drama Club.
Joseph Kajon: As President of the Student Council, Joseph established himself as a leader of the entire school community. As a member of the Drama Club for two years, Joe definitely became a leader also to the entire cast and crew of the show. As is true with many students who join Drama Club, I wish Joe joined as a freshman since he has a strong work ethic, developing his character, both on stage and at home. The past two years of musicals have been somewhat “smoother sailing” since Joe, and many of the other seniors leaving, memorized their lines so quickly and early into rehearsals (not saying it was all peaches and cream either haha). But without Joe’s leadership, acting abilities, and love of this school, this show would be missing the intangibles that make a show work. Thank you Joe for everything you did for our School and this Drama Club.
Nicholas DeGennaro: There is ONLY ONE Nicholas DeGennaro. Nick has been the heart of this Drama Club for the past two years. When everyone needs a good laugh, turn to Nick. When you need something found, turn to Nick. When you forgot a line, turn to Nick. Oh, you aren’t even at rehearsal today? Nick will not only perform his part, but your part as well. Nick has the stage presence that does not need to be taught; it’s natural to him. I can definitely see why he looks up to some performers, like Britney Spears, and see where he imitates his energy and talent from. Nick’s performances as Hysterium last year and Jack this year will always be held in my mind as two of the most memorable characters I’ve seen portrayed on the stage at St. Mary. I know Nick will continue to take his enthusiasm and love of his school forward into the future (especially helping coach his younger brother who will be attending St. Mary next year to follow in his footsteps). Thank you Nick for your drive and heart that made this Drama Club beat with life, day in and day out, for the last two musicals.
Ezyelly “Zizi” Konopka: Ezyelly came to St. Mary once Queen of Peace High School closed and brought with her a big personality, but even bigger display of love for every single member of this Drama Club. Even though Zizi plays the mean Giant this year, she is a sweetheart deep down. Her willingness to always help where she can is a characteristic not everyone possesses. Yes, Zizi can be brash and forward at times, but once you get past her tough exterior, she truly is a young woman with many talents and skills. I hope her time here with the Drama Club helped build up her self-image and understanding of the many talents she has. My hope is that she continues to build these skills and use them into the future so others can also see how great Zizi truly can be. Thank you Zizi for reminding me of what it means to help students in this program discover who they are, what they can do, and how to continue to use those talents for the betterment of others.
