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From the Artistic Director.... 

As I sit here writing these words, I can’t help but look back at how excited I was to work with this group.  Such immense talent that just radiates from each and every child, teenager, and adult. I  would be crazy to pass on a chance to be honored to work with them. However, when I found out I was being offered Charlie and the Chocolate Factory I battled with the idea of directing or stepping back and auditioning for Wonka because the role of Wonka is almost always going to be a dream role for me. I remember the 1^st time I saw Gene Wilder in the role and how captured I was by his presence and performance. Nevertheless, I am so glad that I didn’t let this chance to direct this cast slip through my fingers. This cast has been a unique experience for me as it is the biggest cast I’ve ever directed or been part of. I was hesitant to have so many people in a show, especially my first large children cast. After a lot of twirling things inside of my brain, I couldn’t get past the idea of turning a child away from a theatre experience. Theatre is for everyone, and this group put themselves out there in a way most others run away from. So, we decided to let them have their time in the lights, and oh how stressed and blessed it has been with my new family. I encourage you to really watch and see the faces light up when they hit the stage. You are looking at future stars that haven’t found their place in the sky just yet, but oh how bright they shine. I challenge you to find brighter stars.

              This show has so many moving parts on and off stage, it truly is a machine.  Suze Reynolds has a way of teaching music to all ages that anyone who works with her always leaves better than when they came to her. Jenna Winter-Freeborn and Molly Lewis have really brought a special touch to the twirl and created some fun and challenging choreography for all ages. Tina Henderson has been a pivotal piece in making the characters come to life through her costumes. It’s a lot to dress so many people but she and her team have done an amazing job. Chris and Candi McDaniel, what a blessing to have you both on board. As much as a headache I can be you both helped bring magic to the show. Biz Bates for your amazing set designs and brainstorming to make the Charlie world come to life. LB for making connections to our community partners to help create a unique theatre experience for our audience.  Last but not least, I can’t thank Eli “Studly” Cooper, & Angie Bowman for keeping me grounded and on a straight path. I would be lost in this show without you 2.

              Lastly, I wanted to say a special thank you to some very important people who were not on or off stage during the show and that is my family. My wife Kiersten has been taking care of our 3 littles Hunter(1 ½ ) Kolt(3) and Maveryk(5) all while I’ve been away. They have all sacrificed time with me for my passion for theatre with others. How incredibly blessed I have been with my family.

              Thank you all for coming to see our show and supporting theatre stars of tomorrow, today. Enjoy the show and remember, “No man waits for time, don’t carp and seize the per diems!”

-- Colburn