"I am the maker of fearful dreams and splendid fantasy."
This is my mantra for directing, illustrating, storytelling, and design. In this production it was put into action on a bigger scale than it has been in a long time. In order to enact these dreams and fantasies in my artwork, I contemplate and work alone. I'll bounce ideas off of a few trusted people, but for the most part, it is me in my studio solving creative problems and devising schemes.
In this space, in the special black box of dream weaving I work in, it's different. I have the pleasure of watching my students get excited and dive into creative process on a daily basis. In a rehearsal I see them challenge themselves and find new voices they never knew they had. I see my vision twist, turn, and tumblesault into new and fantastical expressions. These student artists experiment, challenge themselves and work with the fervor few have in this business. I am intensely proud of their accomplishments and achievements in every production, but with this work, they have outdone themselves once again.
I would be incredibly remiss if I did not mention the amazing thing that is true collaboration. When the chips are down, and the eight ball is charging at you like the boulder in Raiders of the Lost Ark, that is when the power of a theatre community is tested. The parent boosters and students not in the production who stayed long hours to finish building and painting the set, working the costumes at home, or taking time out of their day in a thousand other ways providing snacks and waters, or just being there to lend a hand, these are the people who made the vision happen.
The administrators, Mrs. Murphy and Dr. Skeldon who constantly have the troupe's back and support us at every turn to them I cannot express enough thanks. To my fellow faculty members all pitching in with candy donations, chaperoning of the Cans for Candy and Knight Terrors events, to Ms. Yefko and her brilliant photography of our players, To my 3rd Floor hall mates for allowing us to use your rooms, I give my deepest gratitude for your support of these student artists.
Finally, to my family. There are times where like Mr. Halloway, I feel inadequate, lost, or not able to be the man I think I should be. But one look from you, and I am young and able to conquer the world. You make me feel as though I am young, vital and important. I am no hero, but you make me feel like one every time you smile at me.
This story is about coming of age. This program is now coming of age with all of your help. The Beacon Theatre Workshop is better and better every year due to all of you. We are building an amazing theatre on a wonderful foundation and I am looking forward to season after season of phenomenal students, parents, and audiences to share our triumphs with. Please sit back, relax, and enjoy.
Yours in Art,
Jason Robert LeClair
