I think back to the fall of 2003 when I was directing my first musical here at HHS. I had 26 students on stage, many of them new to theater, and a love for the process of putting on a show. In terms of directing, I was a novice, but had enough faith in myself that I was confident I would find my way. Currently I am directing my 40th HHS show, with twenty-two years of teaching here under my belt. During that time, I have worked with over four thousand young people either on stage, behind the scenes, or in the classroom. I have been blessed to have been a part of each one of their lives. Many I am still in touch with, some have fallen out of reach, but I carry a memory of every one, the special moments we spent together and the beautiful productions we created together.
While this production has been a bit more complicated than some, the pure joy radiating from the cast and crew during rehearsals has fueled my purpose. These are great kids. They support each other, believe in my vision, and respect the process. They are kind, grateful, and dedicated. I am thrilled you are here to celebrate their efforts.
I could not do any of this without the brilliance of Isaac Brody’s music direction. He truly is one of the best I have ever worked with. He can find vocal qualities in a child that they never knew existed. He is patient, easy to get along with, and we have worked very well together over the years. He has made everything so much better and I know he will make the transition for whomever comes in to take my place a smooth one.
There is also my partner in crime, Clorinda Creo-Kirshy. She costumes the shows with sensitivity and an unparalleled artistic flair. She started helping me out when her son was a sophomore - that was back in 2010 - and we have been teaming up ever since. She promised me she would stay until I left - of course, that was after I told her that if she stopped costuming the shows, I was going to stop directing them. So we are in it until the end. She is a good friend and I will miss working with her. Her love for these children and the love they feel for her is a blessed thing to witness.
I have discovered things about myself working here with these kids, year after year. I have been profoundly touched by their kindness, support, and love. They have trusted me with their vulnerability, a sacred thing at their ages, and that has been humbling in many ways. While there is a sadness in knowing this is my last musical here, there is also a proud celebratory feeling about how much I have grown, the beauty I have helped to create and the transformations I have witnessed. There are few jobs in this world that give back as much as teaching does. Add to that the joy of ushering students to become their best creative selves, and well, I have loved my tenure at Hopkinton High School more than I ever anticipated. I also know in my heart it is time to move on and redefine myself one more time.
Thank you to all who walked with me while I was here. It has made all the difference.
Valerie von Rosenvinge
