Directors Note:
It seems every time I sit down to write my notes for a theatre program, all I can think is how very lucky I am to have such a wonderful cast and crew. So, let's hold that thought this time for the end.
Choosing a show is always a challenge. You have to consider the space you will perform in, who you believe will audition, who you might be able to find to fill in roles that no one auditions for, the cost of costumes, set, props, royalty costs, script costs, material appropriateness, skills of your actors...the list goes on and on. This year I turned the task over to our International Thespian Society students. I told them to bring me two options and they insisted they wanted to do a comedy after the heaviness of "1984". I love a good comedy and looked forward to their choices. Well, they couldn't have found a less comedic choice, thankfully.
Confession time: "Our Town" was not a show I would ever have picked to direct. However, our reading committee was adamant that this was the show they wanted to do and despite my apprehensions, I trusted their instincts. Boy am I glad I did! These amazing actors and technicians have brought this show to life in a way I couldn't have imagined. They are proof that sometimes you have to trust the people around you and follow their lead. "Our Town" is one of the most produced plays for a reason. I hope as you watch Thornton Wilder's classic that you take a moment to really think about the special people in your life, the special moments you have spent with them, and how you want to be remembered by those you love, as well as the memories you want to cherish yourself. The show is set in the early 1900's before the distractions of television, cell phones, internet, and social media. And yet, even then, it was easy to get preoccupied and ignore the beautiful moments around you. I hope we all take Wilder's message to heart and spend more time living in the moment. As another school year ends and we look forward to more time with family, I hope you take the time to realize the beauty and precious moments of each day and treasure them always.
To my cast and crew: you never cease to amaze me. This show is what it is because of your hard work and determination. Seniors, you all have survived so much and been true leaders this year. Thank you for all you have done for me and for your fellow actors and techs. Your persistence and tenacity made this show a reality. Please keep in touch and come back to visit. I'm always here for you. To the rest of "my kids", I look forward to new adventures together next year! I'm so glad you're part of our crazy theatre family!
Carmen Caldera-Brzoska
