Welcome to Martin Meylin Middle School's production of The Rockin' Tale of Snow White here at the Lampeter-Strasburg Performing Arts Center. When selecting this year's show, I was on the lookout for something with a large cast offering flexibility in roles, many opportunities for students to have at least a few lines, music that was challenging but still fun to sing and added to the enjoyment of the show, and a story that might be familiar but told in a unique way. The Rockin' Tale of Snow White delivered on all accounts.
From auditions September 20 & 21 to our closing performance of December 3, our cast and crew of about 60 middle school students have worked tirelessly (well, maybe they did get a bit tired at times when working on some of the choreography) to create the magic you see on the PAC stage. They have brought the characters to life through thought, practice, and reflection, taking into account their own ideas as well as those of the directing staff. As a whole, they have become a family in every sense of the word: they have had their share of differences of opinion, but they have also supported each other and helped each other to grow. For the first time since I became director of the musicals, three eighth grade cast members--Finley, Jaleigh, and Aly-- choreographed several of the larger ensemble and group songs. Their desire and willingness to take on the added responsibility is commendable. They have learned that it isn't always easy bringing a vision to life, but it certainly is rewarding! Our creative team and student directing staff members helped all cast members gain valuable personal and interpersonal skills, creating something that is truly greater than the sum of its parts.
Productions like this could not be performed without the countless hours of dedicated individuals. I am so blessed to be joined by an amazing creative team that shares my belief that theater can be a freeing experience for students and provide so many opportunities to learn and grow. David Griffith, my friend, your knowledge, insight, and dedication to middle school students is extraordinary! Thank you is not enough for all of the support and friendship you have provided for many years! Ben Gibson, I value your music expertise, the offbeat examples that help students improve their singing, and your willingness to help me at any time. Julia Bailey, I am so thankful you volunteered to help when I announced that I was in need of a backstage manager. Thank you for your willingness to learn and your leadership of our backstage student crew. Ed Leone, your set pieces and scenery painting always match my vision and help to set the stage for the magic of Martin Meylin theater. Ethan Moore, you and your student tech team help our actors be seen and heard; thank you for your dedication to live theater and providing tremendous experiences in sound, lighting, and stage managing to L-S students.
We are blessed to have former cast members return to Martin Meylin year after year to share their experiences and leadership, helping us to continue to grow the love of theater as well as to grow each individual in our casts. This year is no exception. Aiden Flory, Elly Bruner, McKenna Donaldson, Talia Hall, Kathryn Davis--thank you for your dedication to theater, our cast, and our creative team! Your support and assistance is invaluable.
My final thank you is to each and every one of you in the audience: family, friends, faculty, staff, students, and community members. Without your support, we could not be providing this experience and love of live theater for our students. From rehearsal pick-ups and drop-offs to costumes and help with learning lines and music, you make everything related to this production possible. We are so glad you're here.
It's time for "Snow White's Hip-Hop, Doo-Wop, Be-Bop, Funky Little Rockin' Tale!" Enjoy the show!
Mrs. D'Agostino
