As we bring the 2025 season of the Varley Players to a close, it’s the perfect moment to reflect on this year’s theme: the season of the female villain. In theatre, we teach our students that villains never see themselves as evil—they believe they are right. Whether it's Mrs. Cheveley in An Ideal Husband or Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly in Chicago: Teen Edition, each of these women felt fully justified in her choices. And without revealing too much, the antagonist in tonight’s production of The Hollow shares that same conviction.
Given the time periods in which these plays were written, when women were often denied agency or power, it’s striking that each of these stories centers, in some way, on female empowerment. These so-called villains challenge the expectations placed on them—and that, in itself, is revolutionary.
Of course, none of our work would be possible without the incredible team that brings these productions to life. The Varley Players is, at its core, a collaborative effort—onstage, backstage, and behind the scenes.
We are especially grateful to Mr. Marc Beja, whose unwavering support ensures we have the resources we need to mount successful productions, and who helps promote our work both digitally and in our community. We are also deeply appreciative of administrators Dr. Jen Lamia, Gina Cunningham, Dr. Tim Kaltenecker, Chris Walsh, Lauren Albert, and Jenn Spirelli, who consistently champion our program and step in whenever we need guidance or support. Their presence is felt in every performance we produce.
Thanks to Patrick Salerno, our student designers and stage management teams have grown exponentially in both skill and confidence over the year. Danielle Brooks is nothing short of a theatrical treasure—her mentorship has been essential to our construction, props, and run crews. And Evan Horowitz, who manages the logistical and operational side of the Varley Players, is the glue that holds us all together. His attention to detail is enviable. His contributions have been invaluable, and we would be lost without him.
To our parent volunteers—thank you. Your generosity and dedication, from costuming to coordinating meals and banquets, make all the difference.
We look forward to announcing our next season soon. Until then, thank you for your continued support of our student actors and crew. We are endlessly proud of what they’ve accomplished—and deeply grateful to share it with you.
Doug
