Before this school year started, a lot of things were up in the air. Broadway was closed for the foreseeable future, actors like myself lost months of work due to cancelled contracts and students were trapped in the confines of their homes with nothing but their parents and a computer screen.
What we didn't know was that those very same computer screens would lead to the start of a new chapter, not just educationally, but theatrically. The traditional idea of performing for a live audience was flipped on its head. We are now expected to perform for a crowd that we cannot see or hear- and still give a quality performance.
Luckily, I had a play in mind. She Kills Monsters. The more I read it, the more I realized that this was the show I wanted to bring to life- even if it was through the many panels of Zoom. It just so happened that there was a virtual option, which would pave the way for the students at DSAHS to finally get a chance to perform.
This project was the truest form of collaboration. Being thrust into the unknown that was academia with nothing but my professional theatrical resume to guide me was terrifying. However, if it wasn't for these students, this show would not be possible.
It takes a village.
Though not an easy task, this performance you are about to see is the culimination of these students' hard work. I learned from them as much as they learned from me. They have been challenged to perform in the most unconventional way ever, and they do it with finesse and ease. To say I'm proud of them would not be enough.
I want to thank Mr. David McKnight, Ms. Pamela A. Clappier and the entire DSAHS family for welcoming me onboard and making this feel like a second home.
Lastly, I want to thank my cast and crew. Without you, our drama club wouldn't be where it is now. Your hard work and dedication to our process speaks volumes.
Congrats, Adventurers. You have made history and left your mark on Don Soffer Aventura High School. I am so proud of each and every single one of you!
