In setting out to select a musical this year, there were some unique challenges and considerations. To assist in preventing show stoppage, it was decided as a whole theatre company -- directors, cast, and crew -- we all would wear masks in rehearsals and during the performances. We worked wearing masks into our show early on in the process and continued with the concept even when the mandate was lifted to protect our cast and crew while giving us the best chance to run the show with the cast intact. While lesser-known, and very silly, the cast, crew, pit musicians, faculty, and everyone else involved still put in a tremendous amount of effort! In spite of itself, Firebringer has themes that are important to think about (and laugh at!) in our modern society. The thought of our ancient prehistoric ancestors trying to tell us about the first time we had a conflict between progress and tradition is a fresh and fun concept for a musical. Additionally, thank you to Team Starkid for providing the flexibility to adjust the script as needed, and letting us create a truly unique show. Thanks to all of the support from the administrators, faculty, parents, and community that continue to make performing arts possible!
It has been an amazing first year at Westy, and I look forward to making more magic happen here.
Allen Edwards, Westminster High School, Drama Director
While the role of a technician is generally understood, the “behind the scenes” people, at the educational level and the high school level specifically, it is worth explaining. At the beginning of a show, they are given a script, a director’s vision, a concept, in some cases designs and drawings, and raw materials; lumber, fabric, a blank page. From these things, and over countless hours, they create the environment you see here today, along with other things like posters, tickets, and a team of ushers. They learn skills in the shop, sewing, lighting, rigging, graphic design skills, all the while learning the most important workplace and life skills that will serve them wherever they end up on the day after graduation; planning and organization, teamwork, problem-solving, follow-through, time management, commitment to an assigned role, and pride in their work.
This particular group of students is one of the hardest working, most dedicated, and eager to learn that I have seen in quite some time. They have lived at the theatre, popping in on off-hours and at lunch to see if there’s anything they can do. They have been at every build day and don’t hesitate to call home for permission when there is an opportunity to work late. They have built scenery and costumes and props, but also friendships and student-teacher relationships that will last a lifetime. They have worked hard to make their craft perfect and are not afraid to re-do it if it’s not right. They are committed to the end product as well as each other. They are supportive of every member of the company and are willing to do anything for the good of the whole.
I am unbelievably proud of their accomplishments, and their hearts. The pride they will have on opening night when the curtain goes up and they get to say, “I created that!” is what makes my educator heart full. These kids are my why.
I would be remiss if I didn’t thank the parents of these amazing kids, who have spent more time with me than at home over these past weeks. I hope that when you see the work they have done, you will also be proud. And while the cast gets to take a bow on stage, the technicians get their thanks from the actors, their peers, teachers, and most importantly from you, the audience. If you have an opportunity to compliment a tech, or share your delight in all of the hours and learning that these kids have done to support the work you’ve seen tonight, be sure to tell them.
Erin Breitenbach, Technical Director and WPS Theatre Manager
