I am immensely proud to lead this group again this year, my fourth and final year as Director. We've navigated the crazy Covid waters, wading through heartache, tears, and yes...even some laughter. But we've confidently emerged with memories that will last for years and decades to come.
We were lucky. We beat the initial March 2020 Covid shutdown by just 4 days with 4 thrilling performances of 42nd Street. Like this year, it was a Kenny Awards year for us...and while it was dissapointing to see the Awards not take place that year, we were grateful for the $1,000 grant awarded to us by Shea's and the Lipke Foundation. We were also thrilled that the Kenny's did the same for the schools that were not able to bring their performances to the stage.
We followed that in 2021 with another challenging production, shooting Something Rotten film style...scene-by-scene (and out of order) to be edited together and streamed for all to see. It may be my all time favorite quote for a show T-Shirt... "but they're singing! About the plague!" I guess sometimes a little laughter really is the best medicine.
That was fun, but we're thrilled to be in-person this year, with our orchestra back with us. Theatre is meant to be experienced live on the stage we love
We have a brilliant team of parents and volunteers that help make this show happen. None of our lead team are full-time teachers here in Eden...we simply care greatly about creating this experience for the students of Eden. One that many of us had years ago (we won't say how many) in high school. I mentioned in the brief note after the student bios section just how much of a joy it has been for me to be able to lead this group of students. Please take a moment to read that...but it bears repeating here just how special they are, not just on stage...but as people.
I would also be remiss if I didn't mention two more people:
Ray "don Ramón" Neil. The minute I think my energy tank is full, I then watch Ray...who leaves EVERY LAST BIT of himself out there for his role in our production. This is his 33rd(!!) show. Many of those as accompanist...and then finally taking on the role of Orchestra Director in 2017. You can see a beatiful tribute to him by one of his own Pit Musicians on the back page of this program book. Ray...you have given your all to us. It's time to sit back and enjoy the theatre from the seats. Bravo, my friend!
Jackie Gould. My amazing wife Directs her own show at Charlotte Avenue Elementary each year, less than two weeks after our show at Eden closes. She rehearses with them before the school day begins, teaches all day, then joins us here to help this show shine. I couldn't possibly ask for a better partner in life. To think we were in shows together in high school...and now we've had the opportunity to be a part of our own 3 children experiencing this...it's a lifetime of memories made. I'm glad we've made them together.
For everything, a season...and a new chapter awaits as we will both be leaving our roles after this year. We hope we've served our students well. I can speak for both Jackie and Ray in saying we've loved watching them work and grow on and off stage. Our extended family for sure.
Thank you, Eden. I'll cherish these years forever.
Mr. Gould
