Director's Notes
I think it is safe to start by saying this was easily one of the most difficult productions I've ever been part of. And with that out of the way, I can also say that this is easily the best cast and crew I've worked with. A few days into blocking Act II, we lost about half of our cast and crew for two weeks. The remainder of Act II was blocked and choreographed in only four days upon their return. To top it all off, after one day of tech rehearsal, two of our crew and Isaac Wayne (our Nicely Nicely Johnson) had to step down for the duration of the show.
With a lot of creative planning on the staff's end, and with the help of Joe McGowan, Finn Baynes, Emily Manar, Sam Raupp, and Mark McGowan we were able to make some creative changes in two short days so the show could go on in a less than traditional format.
I'd like to thank the staff who have worked endlessly to ensure that we were ready from the start and pushed to get us through the end. Mr. Henry built our set pieces in a few short weeks before we even started blocking the show; Mr. Elhard not only had our costumes for Act 1 ready in less than a month, but was constantly making changes for Act 2 up till the final day of recording; Mr. Rydberg was not only our amazing music director, but he also was our sound designer; and Mr. McGowan came in with less than six hours notice and helped us film over the course of six days so we could have a high quality recording to share with you.
To our Seniors, I am honored to be able to say you were my "first" seniors in a musical production. You came day after day and stepped up, not only in your roles, but as leaders to the rest of the cast. Your efforts, dedication, and hard work will not be forgotten, and I hope that each of you continues to grace whichever stage you may find yourself in the future with your abilities in the way you've graced the stage at Holy Angels.
To the rest of the cast and crew, I'm so proud of you and how far you've come. It hasn't been easy and there were plenty of days where it would have been easier for you to quit and never look back, but you've proven just how tough you all are, and I'm so happy that you are able to share your talents with your family, friends, and community.
To Isaac Wayne. We've missed you, we wouldn't be here without your dedication, leadership, and energy. We look forward to the day you can return to the stage at Holy Angels.
~Jeremy Wollersheim
Artistic Director of Cathedral High School
