A Note from the Director:
It is nearly impossible to escape the realms of divisiveness in our daily social interactions in today's world. We, as humans, strongly believe in what we believe, which causes us to either build walls or pit ourselves against those that differ from our own beliefs. When we find ourselves in those situations, it is easy to use the word “impossible” as a label for the opponent.
“It is impossible for me to work with that person.”
“It is impossible for them to understand me.”
Impossible is a harsh word to swallow. It makes a situation feel like there is a permanent state of hopelessness. The story of Cinderella is a hopeful tale; it promotes the inverse of the impossible, “possible.”
Ella, our protagonist, demonstrates how kindness and patience can help transform the impossible into possibility. By being kind and generous to Marie, the old beggar woman, Ella witnesses the magic of Marie’s transformation into a beautiful fairy godmother. In return, Marie transforms Ella’s dream to go to the ball into a possibility.
What we learn from this story is that kindness creates possibilities! We will inevitably experience differences in opinions, which is perfectly acceptable. However, rather than focus on our differences, we can shift our mindsets away from impossibility, similar to Ella, and lead with kindness to build understanding and relationships, strengthening our unity.
In my eleven years at Goochland High School, I am proud to direct my first Rodgers and Hammerstein musical! As our first live high school musical since the pandemic, I can not wait for many of our new performers to experience the applause of a Goochland audience!
It isn't easy to put on a show with over seventy students. I am appreciative that I have a mature group of talented and hardworking students that pour all of their energy into the show. I am always amazed at what our young artists can accomplish, and I must thank the student leadership for keeping rehearsals efficient and positive.
I would also like to thank the drama staff and parent volunteers who graciously donated countless hours in helping bring this story to life. I am a firm believer in collaboration, and I love sharing ideas with my team. The creative visions from all areas (costumes, music, choreography, set design, and business relations) complimented each other beautifully, and I am honored to work with such gifted individuals.
Finally, I would like to thank my amazing colleagues in the Fine Arts Department! When selecting this show, I knew I wanted to collaborate with each area of Fine Arts. I am amazed by your students' talents, and I am so thankful that we all got to showcase our talents together in one weekend.
I hope you enjoy our production of Rodgers and Hammerstein's Cinderella.
Sincerely,
Neil Burch
Artistic Director
