I would like to start by thanking you all for coming out to see our show. The arts need the support of people like you in order to continue to thrive. I am so incredibly appreciative of the community that exists here at Franklin and I am so proud to be a part of it.
The cast of Shrek the Musical Jr. has worked so hard on this production. They have spent countless hours after school learning their music, lines, and choreography, and perfecting it. They took the material they were given and ran with it, making their characters their own and adding their own personal flair to everything they do. I have been consistently blown away by the dedication and talent that these students have shown. Whether they realize it or not, this is something special, these students are something special. I can only hope that they are as proud of themselves as I am of them, and I want them to know that they will always hold a place in my heart as the cast of my first show here at Franklin.
Thank you to our stage crew, who came in late into the process and learned very quickly. There is so much that goes on behind the scenes during a show. Our stage crew is able to seamlessly move the sets, assist with costume changes, and keep track of props all while the cast is moving on and off stage. Our hair and makeup team took on a beast of a show, bringing Shrek, Donkey, and Lord Farquaad to life with their artistic skills, as well as magically transforming Fiona into her true self in less than two minutes.
I learned very quickly that the FMS productions are nothing without all of the amazing volunteers. I want to express my deepest and sincerest gratitude to the Alumni Association, the parents, and the high school volunteers, because I would be lost without them. Everything from costumes, to sets, to concessions, to ticket sales, and everything in between has been done by our volunteers. Thank you to each and every one of you for lending your time and your knowledge to this show.
Thank you to Anthony Francese for the incredible set. I am blown away by your talent and kindness. Thank you to Dana La Selva and Terri Seggio for the hours spent on the costumes. Thank you to Cherilyn Strand for helping us transition into our new era, and for your guidance through the audition process. Thank you to Kiera Radvanski and Terri Seggio for answering my millions of questions. It is so clear to me that you two love this program so deeply, so thank you for trusting me to continue it on.
Thank you to James Mikijanic for all of your support in so many ways. You have taught me so much, and I would not have gotten through this without not only your guidance, but your friendship. Thank you to Meg Midgley for taking on this new venture with me. Your choreography is amazing and so much fun for these students. I’m so excited to see all we can do together in the future.
Thank you to Bibi Baksh, Sandra Matos, and Paola Pentz. You three are incredible. I cannot thank you enough for everything.
Thank you to my family for your constant support. Thank you to Jane, Sydney, Jenna, Hayden, and Michael for being the reason I love Shrek the Musical so much.
On behalf of the cast, crew, and production team, enjoy Shrek the Musical Jr.!
Ms. Rachel Hansen
