I have always loved pirates - once I realized mermaids weren't real, I told people I wanted to be a pirate when I grew up. In fact, one of my favorite jobs before teaching was working as a privateer for the Southern California Ren Faire as a member of Grace O'Malley's crew. While pirates historically did some dastardly deeds, they also had a unique culture and community filled with rules, support for their peers, and democratic leanings. Out at sea for months on end, pirates would eat, sleep, work, and play with the same crew that entire time with no escape. They needed to trust each other with their lives. It could make and break bonds between shipmates. And that is what I wanted for our wonderful Excalibur team.
These students dedicate so much time to working on this show: developing characters, costumes, light designs, and soundscapes. They teach themselves new techniques, they refine their mannerisms, and they encourage each other throughout the process - truly the pirate spirit in my book. I knew that our kids could benefit from an experience that makes their bonds the central focus on our show. Jim Hawkins leaves his hometown with no father, but ends up finding father figures all around him - in Captain Smollett, Dr. Livesey, and even Long John Silver himself. The bonds between Jim and the shipmates become the means that save the show, just like the work our kids have done here. I hope their efforts leave you with that swashbuckling feeling of youth, fancy, and fantasy adventures for buried treasure and the high seas.
I wanted to give a big thank you to Sarah Anderson, Nicki Shepherd, and Kira Simmons for all the support and dedication. It's difficult being a director, but with their expertise, they make it easy to make art with our kids. They truly help and encourage our kids to be their best selves, and I could not verbalize how much I truly appreciate them. Also, thank you so much to the faculty, staff, and administration of John Champe for all their support.
Lastly, a big thank you to my family - Donovan Forgy, David and Tammy Harper, Megan Harper, and Sherry Layman. I know I've been buried at work this fall, but I think you'll agree these kids are worth it. Oh, and Billie Girl the Beagle for all the snuggles.
Strap in your bootstraps and bring your compass, because the show is about to begin.
Sincerely,
Mx. Molly Harper
