WOW! What a process! What a year!
Since the world shut down over a year ago, live audiences have been few and far between and the light of performers has been dimmed without the sound of applause. Tonight we make up for that! The main thing I've communicated to cast, crew, band and anyone who would listen is that my goal for "Mamma Mia!" was purely ... JOY. If we've given you that, please return the favor with loud and obnoxious applause so we know if we've succeeded.
So many people have been a part of making this production successful. In fact, if there are indeed too many for my feeble brain to remember, PLEASE don't be offended or feel like you aren't appreciated. So much about tonight's production can only be described as an embarrasment of riches.
First and foremost ... I MUST acknowledge my seniors - some of whom I've known since they were entering the sixth grade.
Ben - Holy smokes, you can play! You are exactly why no one should limit their expectations of theirself because they're "just a teen," or "just a high schooler." The way you lead and how you've held your own with the pros inspires awe. Thanks for hanging with us!
Olivia - You are a stand out among stand outs. Go for it! Your talent pales only to the amazing human you are as well. Thank you for all that you mean to all of us and for the gift that is your voice and soul.
Nick - do not be underestimated! Your talent and abilities are as big as your personality. Aim high ... because you can! Thank you for allowing us to care about you!
Elise - You are brilliant. You are talented. You are strong. You are loved. I can't wait to see the lengths to which your horizons expand. We are all so proud of you!
Amelia - Late to the BHS stage, you've certainly made up for lost time! I'm incredibly proud of how hard you've worked on accomplishing your passions. We are so fortunate to have gained your presence among us!
Livia - You ARE grace. You ARE poise. You ARE a huge source of BHS pride! Don't stop until you've reached your dream. You'll get there and no one will be shocked!
Ariella - You are our quiet but fierce advocate, supporter and fan whether you are helping move or build scenery, giving us your kind and sincere smile and support in passing or in our audience bringing a group of P2P pals. You are one of us! You are loved!
Carly - You are a powerhouse, kid! To watch you on stage or know a character you've created is to be in the presence of greatness. You are a walking celebration and we all admire you and your inspiration.
Gavin - Look at grown up you! Seeing you mature over these last six or seven years has been awe inspiring. As good on earth as you are on stage, you've made us better by your example AND your support. It's a privilege to work with you.
Logan - You do it all! You've brought us all joy by your presence on stage, in the wings, on our screens and behind the scenes and we are better because you've been here. Don't underestimate the influence you leave with us or the adoration we will always have for you.
Our 20/21 program family sponsors and Shout Out donors - Kendra Bath, Howard Collens, Shannan Hibbard, Adina Rubenstein, Meredith Allan, Annie Martin, Kathy Berryman, Ruth Hurwitz, Jennifer Bergsman, Jon Eichman, Nancy Studer, Debra Cusmano, Tracy Parrish, Christy Ashe, Patricia Bianca, Lori Leonard, Laura Bergsman, Joanna Cedo, Mara Starr, Rebecca Main, Jessica Stilger, Brittney Vaughn, Sara Dagenais, Sam Bourgeois, Annette Wahl, Rachel Mascari, Theresa Fraley, Gabriella Workman, Christina Rey, Jeremy Chupack, Lewis Echlin, Sue Klunk, Karen Dickson, Dan Welcher, Melanie Myers, Elina Piskoverov, Marcy Ford, Matt Manter, Colette Nutton, John Considine, Marcy Ford, Tom Ford, Julia Buccalo and Pam Primak
Special thanks to the Be Drama Fan Club past and present including my OG SWs! Jon Ball and Pegasus Entertainment, Mike, Maddy and Vickie Gazzarari, our incredible band, Bella Levin and Lucy Breda (LOVE YOU!), the BSD and BHS Administrations (especially Andrew Meloche) who make taking care of our kids so much easier and finally ... the dream team that is my production staff ... Jon Thomann (best conductor/friend ever!), Sarah Noble, Molly Zaleski and Calamity Fleischauer ... I love you all. This couldn't have been done without this exact team.
Dennis McDavid ... you will TRULY be missed. Everything that pulses in the heart of this district is your legacy. YOU have given us all the tools to make the #berkleydifference. Thanks for everything, my friend.
Cast ... LOOK WHAT YOU DID! LOVE THIS!
Dramatically thankful,
John F. Hopkins
