The Janitor's Closet
The Janitor’s Closet began as a half-baked idea in March of 2018: my method of political activism. However, for the sake of avoiding spoilers, I will not name the events that brought my pen to paper, or rather fingers to keys. This piece has evolved tremendously; The initial draft that I wrote on a seat-back-tray-table of a plane would be almost unrecognizable from the production you are about to see and I have no doubt it will continue to change. From the very first read-through in my living room (where I handed my friends yellow legal pads for notes and bribed them with chips and guacamole), to the incredible privilege of a staged reading one Friday after school, to the very productive rehearsals in Jake’s garage, I am incredibly grateful for everyone who has given me guidance and support throughout this process. Lastly, a special thank you to Maddy for her brilliant sass and authenticity, Jake for his unwavering belief in me and glorious dance moves and Jayna for the beautiful vision that elevated us all. Thank you and I hope you enjoy The Janitor’s Closet!
“Don’t it always seem to go that you don’t know what you’ve got till it’s gone.” - Joni Mitchell
- Audrey Hempel
Childish.
Childish. was originally written as a response to people calling politicians across the country “children,” in a derogatory way. I believe those people to be underestimating the power of a child’s mind. Children see the world with kindness and adventure in their eyes, things that are often forgotten with age, but necessary for one’s fulfillment of life. Does losing qualities like kindness make us better adults? Are we happier without adventure in our lives? Childish. is a celebration of children. Showing us not to ignore them, not to underestimate them, but listen and learn from them, and to keep that childish magic with us wherever we go.
- Sarah Lina Sparks
