Lindsey Welsh (Director)- I am beyond proud to present to you this year's spring musical, Bright Star. Since this little show came into my life four years ago, I have been waiting to bring it to Arvada West and this year provided the perfect moment to share this masterpiece not only with our cast, crew, and pit, but with the amazing AWest community. I could not be more excited to share this lovely story and incredible music to you tonight. I would be remiss if I did not thank my incredible support team, without whom, this production would not be possible, so thank you first and foremost to my amazing family--my husband, my mom, my dad, and my beautiful 10-month baby boy for inspiring me every day. Thank you to my incredible administration who continues to value the arts. Thank you to this cast, crew, and pit for your endless determination and unwavering work ethic. And lastly, thank you to my directorial team for this production, who make me a better director every single day.
Bill Welsh (Vocal Director)- I am honored to be a part of this year’s production of Bright Star, my fourth musical here at Arvada West High School as Vocal Director. When the decision was made to do this musical, I had never heard of it, so I began my research. What I discovered was an incredible story based on a true event, woven together with an amazing bluegrass score. Working with these A-West students through this musical journey has been nothing short of fabulous, watching them tackle this show with great enthusiasm and tremendous work ethic! Before retiring from music education in 2018, I was the Music Director of Up with People, an international touring, educational, and performing arts organization, as well as the choir teacher at Faith Christian High School here in Arvada. And yes, if the last names look similar, I am the proud father of the show director, Lindsey Welsh.
Karleen Quackenbush (Choreographer)- I have thoroughly enjoyed being a part of Arvada West Theatre Company’s production of Bright Star. I would like to thank our director and courageous leader, Lindsey Welsh, for her unending commitment to the students and our team of directors. Her inspiring leadership brings out the best in us all. Many thanks to Bill Welsh for his exceptional vocal direction and for the countless hours he spent being our “DJ” during dance rehearsals. Thank you to our band and to all the cast and crew for their enthusiasm and hard work! Every year I am impressed by the students and their commitment to the production, and this year is no different. Cast – thank you for your positive attitudes and hard work over the past few months. Thank you for giving your best and making magic happen onstage. I am so proud of you!
Abbie Traynor (Assistant Director)- I am in my final year at University of Northern Colorado studying K-12 theatre education. I could not be more excited to be student teaching here at Arvada West High School and am even more thrilled that I had the opportunity to help direct one of my favorite musicals, Bright Star. I have been so impressed with the undeniable talent and drive that these students have and I truly learn something new from them everyday. Their bubbly, creative energy has made this process so much fun and I am so honored to get to work with each and every one of them! I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to Lindsey Welsh for trusting my directing and allowing me to contribute to her vision. You are all in for a real treat. Please enjoy the show!
