What a year! It is hard to believe that the last time there was a performance in this auditorium, we were on the cusp of a global pandemic. Now, over a year later, I can only express eternal gratitude that we were able to put together any show at all. While this year’s spring musical has conceptually changed at least a hundred times, I can honestly say that I am nothing short of humbled to work with such amazing students that took on the challenge of putting together a show unlike anything we have produced before.
To my booster program, you are the unspoken heroes of this department. While this school year has been a challenge like none other, you all have provided constant support to students and to me personally. At the end of the day, the show must go on and the Athens Drive Theatre Department will rebuild thanks to the incredible work that the board put in this year to ensure our future success. Our shows would not be the same without our board and I cannot thank them enough for caring about our childrens’ successes on and off the stage.
I would be remiss to not mention my utmost gratitude for my partner in crime, Mr. Michael Santangelo. Without Mr. Santangelo, this department would not be where it is today. His immense musical talent speaks for itself, but his love and dedication to our students is what I admire the most about him. I would not be the director that I am without Mr. Santangelo and this show absolutely would not be what it is without his guidance and expert knowledge. Michael, thank you for being my “school person” and my real-life buddy.
In closing, as you watch these students sing their hearts out honoring the departments past, present, and future, it is my hope that you take a moment to embrace the pure joy of musical theater that only high school students can deliver. Through adversity, challenges, and a global pandemic, these students have shown what passion and determination truly looks like. To my cast and crew: I hope you look back on this time with pride. You are all my heroes and I am honored to be your director.
To the audience, though this year has in no small way hurt our program financially, we bring this show to you free of charge in hopes that it will make your day a bit brighter and remind you of the light that remains in all of us. If you wish to make a financial donation to our program and to our “The Show Must Go On” campaign, please visit our website www.athensdrivetheater.org. From the homepage, you will find ways to support our students and our program. Any contribution will greatly impact our program as all funds go toward the students. Thank you for helping to keep the arts alive and thriving in public schools.
With Gratitude,
Ashlynn Hayes, Director
