IN my 17 years of directing, I have never been prouder of a show. Choosing this show was definately a leap of faith....in myself, my team and my students. It has been so fulfilling and we are thrilled to share it again. It is wonderful to be able to team up with Tracy Brumley and the Hobart Community Theatre!
First and foremost--I say thank you to Jay Torrence for allowing us the honor and privledge of being the first high school to ever produce this show. Thank you also for making us feel like your peers. You so willingly took time to meet us and our students, invited us to see you perform, and made us all feel like fellow artists. As we were looking at you with respect and awe--you were giving us the same respect. I have always felt that my job as a theatre director was "the best job," despite the many challenges, many many hours and struggles --but to have a professional playwright, actor, and fellow director reaffirm what I do---has reinvigorated me. I thank you for that.
To my cast: I am so very proud of each of you. I have seen each of you grow so much with this show and am continuously amazed by each of you.
To all those who volunteer with our program: We couldn't do it without you. For the times you do things I am not aware of or the times I simply forget to thank you or show appreciation----THANK YOU FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART! I have a feeling that seeing this all come together will be the biggest "thank you of all."
To Chris Conner: You are just awesome. Thank you for everything you have done, are doing and continue to do in our program.
To my husband and daughter--I love you both so much.
To my family and "surprise guests"--I am so happy that you get to see this show. I hope you love it. I am especially happy to welcome a very special teacher in my life! She is actually the person that inspired me to teach. If I am half of the teacher she was to me and her students---I will be satisfied. Thank you Mrs. Norton--I don't think you truly know the impact you have had on each of the thousands of students you have educated. I hope you are enjoying every second of your retirement. Thanks to you and your husband for making the journey.
Tracy-It has been great working with you. Thanks for bringing the circus back to town with me. Together we have made it even better than it was last time I think!
To our audience: To be able to tell this story is such a special honor. We hope by reading the information we supplied in this program-you are well prepared to understand what you are about to see. If something is confusing to you--just go with it. Chuckle and Laugh and Ponder and Enjoy. Get ready to experience a journey like no other---it will be quite a ride. Welcome to our circus!
Cathy Nelson
