Director's Note:
When sitting down to choose this year’s production, I felt it was important to do a show that not only teaches the children in our program the significance of the time we’re living in today but also encourages hope. That’s what this show is about...hope. No matter what we’re going through, the 11 year old red-haired girl tells us….”the sun will come out tomorrow”!
While quite different, this show process still holds the core principles of what it means to be a BYT member; a determined, strong, ambitious performer, one that tries their hand at leadership positions or when a song becomes too hard they practice until it’s easy. I am constantly in awe of the children in this program, and their talents. They have taken every challenge head on and created something truly beautiful.
I would like to first thank the amazing youth leaders in our program. They serve their program in many ways but most importantly they act as an example for younger participants. I appreciate the work of our youth officers who help plan themed rehearsals, events and help make important program decisions. Thank you Anna Morris, and Natalie Turnier.
Next, I would like to thank the parents of the program participants. Your support and dedication to your child's arts education and experience is evident. A special thank you to any parent that dedicated time to help with this production as well. Another thank you to the Barnstormers Theater and it’s board, especially President Jeff ‘Buzz’ DiSabatino, for his trust in me and his constant support of the program.
Lastly, I would like to thank my staff; the talented, caring and loving vocal director Kyleigh Bleacher, determined, creative, and first time musical choreographer Jessica Williams, and her hilarious, fun-to-work-with and equally talented associate choreographer Gianna Capone. This show would not be successful without them.
In conclusion, I thank YOU for supporting the arts and the children in this community. Theater is important, it’s vital for us to tell important and impactful stories and in dark times it even can teach us that; “THE SUN WILL COME OUT TOMORROW”
Enjoy the show,
Ethan McKellar, Director
