Final Thoughts from Mrs. Prost and Mrs. Polaski as they produce their last show at JCHS.
Writing this director’s note feels a lot heavier than in the past. Footloose 2026 is my last time directing on the JCHS stage, it is very bittersweet. I came to Johns Creek over the summer of 2010. The school had only been open one year, and I had just moved with my family over 1800 miles from Phoenix, Arizona. The students I met that first year were so good to me. They really welcomed me with open arms, and every class after that embraced me and this program. I feel incredibly blessed that my journey led me here.
Footloose will cap off my 16th year as the Theatre director. There have been so many inspiring, frustrating, touching, stressful, surprising, exciting and joy filled moments. As Albert and Punchy might say—“It has been a hell of a ride!” So many different kinds of kids have spent time in the drama room over the past 16 years—so many memories… so many smiles, tears, laughter and lots and lots of love. As I think back on all of them, I am reminded of what incredible people they were, so unique and special. We truly were a family, and I love that we got to tell wonderful stories together.
This year, the booster parents, both current and alumni have really spoiled me. I am not sure I deserved all that, but it sure felt special. I truly appreciate every gesture. You made me feel so loved! It is really all of you that held up this program for so many years. Without parent involvement, we would never have experienced the successes. This group of people have lifted me up during every production, and I am forever grateful for them, many of whom are now my good friends.
I can’t even put into words how much I will miss collaborating with Allison Polaski. She is my family, my friend, my partner. For 16 years, every musical has had her magic touch. She pours so much love into these kids and teaches them so much more about life than dance. She inspires us all. We shared so much joy and laughter together, and I truly value that time. We make a good team! And this year it became the Dream Team with the addition of Brennen Blotner as music director. Brennen is a JCHS alum and his contributions are immeasurable. He is loved by all and a true collaborator in every sense.
As I look back on my time teaching, it is my own family that probably sacrificed the most. David, Ian and Mallory have supported me in every way. Many of you have seen them in the space over and over again. I was only successful due to their incredible skills and the fact that they could work through their frustrations with me. My family has always been one that laughs together and when you have that, all else is manageable (and a little bit of sarcasm helps too!). There are just not enough words to express how much I love and appreciate them.
And now I will hand the reins to Kate Arthur. She is a theatre powerhouse—I mean, did you see SpongeBob! She has fostered and grown a program that far exceeds anything I have seen at the middle school level, and I feel confident she will take the JCHS Theatre program further than I could ever have imagined. She leads with love, and I know I have left the students, that I hold dear, in good hands. I can’t wait to return and support the program as a patron.
My final thoughts are how blessed and thankful I am for everything we achieved and everyone I got to spend time with. To all of you who supported the growth of this Theatre department, I send you my heartfelt appreciation. You should be so proud of what we created. I know that I am immensely proud. And to my students both former and current, please know I love you with all my heart. Even when I was hard on you and you were incredibly frustrated with me (cast list time), I was always doing what I thought was best for your growth on the stage and in life. I hope when you look back on your time here, it brings a smile. I hope you fondly remember your time as part of our “Ensemble”. I also really hope you keep in touch. I can’t wait to hear about the rest of your journey!
With all my love forever,
Debbie Prost
