There are moments in life when you simply have to believe before you can see.
Two summers ago, a small group of dreamers believed our community was ready for theatre again. We believed Odessa deserved a place where stories could be told, friendships could be formed, children could discover confidence, and audiences could once again gather to laugh, cry, and experience the magic that only live theatre can create.
At the time, we had no guarantees. Only hope.
Since relaunching Basin Theatre Works in 2024, every production has been an act of faith. Faith that people would audition. Faith that volunteers would show up. Faith that audiences would return. Faith that our community would believe in what we were building. Because of you, they have.
As I began directing The Sound of Music, I realized how closely our own story mirrors the one unfolding on stage. This musical reminds us that courage often begins with a single "yes." Maria says yes to an uncertain future. Captain von Trapp rediscovers hope. A family chooses love over fear. And through music, they find the strength to face whatever lies ahead. That is what community theatre has done for us.
Every rehearsal has reminded me that theatre isn't built with sets, costumes, or lights. It's built by people. People willing to give their evenings after work, spend weekends painting scenery, learn choreography, sew costumes, sell tickets, move furniture, comfort nervous young performers, and believe that what happens on this stage matters.
And it does matter.
I've watched this cast grow into a family. I've watched our crew solve difficult problems with creativity and grace. I've watched volunteers step in wherever they were needed without asking for recognition. Their talent is extraordinary, but their hearts are what make this production so special.
Most of all, I've watched our community begin to believe again.
That may be the greatest success Basin Theatre Works has experienced.
But our story is still only beginning.
If you've ever wondered whether there's a place for you here, the answer is YES. Whether you're an actor, musician, carpenter, painter, sponsor, volunteer, or simply someone who loves sitting in the audience, you are part of what makes this organization possible. Together, we are creating something our city, our children, and future generations deserve.
Thank you for believing in this dream. Thank you for believing in us.
When the final curtain (metaphorically) falls tonight, I hope you leave with more than a favorite song or cherished memory. I hope you leave believing what we've come to believe; that when a community chooses to invest in creativity, in young people, and in one another, extraordinary things can happen.
After all, that's what Basin Theatre Works is all about.
It's where imagination takes center stage.
With gratitude,
Scott Windham
Director, The Sound of Music
Artistic Director, Basin Theatre Works
