I think, for any Producer or Director, possibly the hardest part of putting together a production like this is how to properly acknowledge the amount of effort, energy, and time it takes to create a show that lasts just a couple of hours for each of 4 nights in early March. You just feel like "Thank You" doesn't quite get you there.
For me, perspective helps. So as you take in this year's musical, consider a few things...
Over 100 students, grades 6-12, are a part of this production. If you've had a student involved in a sport, this is like taking the Modified, JV and Varisty rosters, combining them (and for many sports doubling, or even tripling the size of each of those rosters) and putting them on the same playing field.
But who's the opponent? Not the audience. We're here to entertain you. Make you laugh. Cause a chill or two down your spine. Even put a tear in your eye. (Watch out for a quartet in Act II for that moment...).
I think many of these students would tell you the only opponent is their own mind. Am I good enough? Did I remember all the lines? Have the sets found the perfect spot on the stage before the lights return for the next scene? Have I hit my cue? (Students...yes to all of the above! BRAVO!)
Parents volunteer countless hours, not just to cheer from the sidelines, but to actively work alongside the kids and coaches of the team to prepare for "game day". Many even work during the game to be sure the outcome is a win.
It all makes this a unique, challenging, but incredibly fulfilling experience for everyone involved. An experience that will stick with them for years after they leave Eden.
I was a part of 5 shows when I was in middle and high school in Fredonia (we won't count how many years ago). Yet, here I am, honored to be a part of that experience again...with a much different perspective. One that truly sees the contributions on every level. One that appreciates and understands the decisions, creativity and joy my high school director must have experienced as he led us. (Thank you, Mr. Sternisha!).
Joy really is the word. Thank you students, parents, administration, teachers, and our community...for allowing us the oppoturtunity to partake in the joy that is creating this expression of art, music and, well...US.
As Sebastian would say, the human world...it's a mess. We hope you've been able to escape that mess, even for a few hours, as a result of the incredible gifts and talents of the students you see in these pages and on this stage. Bravo cast, pit, crew, parents...you have all been amazing. It's been an honor to play a role in watching this show come to life.
Oh...and cast...three more words..."HAIL KING TRITON!" :)
Matt Gould
Director/Producer
(but most importantly DAD of three awesome cast members)
