If you know me, you know I dive into everything I do headfirst. It truly consumes me. The Addams Family has been my life, and therefore my family, since October. The students joined said family in November. And even since, the family has grown even more with our stage, tech, make up, concessions, and usher crew members. Through all of this growth, we have truly built a family in this drama department. We may put the "fun" in "dysfunctional," but still a family.
There is a lot that goes behind the scenes as a director. And producer. And choreographer. And vocal director. But, one of the greatest things about this job is that you see the progress in real time, daily. You constantly see the growth in the kids. You hear their voices become more accurate and full. They bring more energy to their characters. They nail the blocking and the choreo. Every hour spent outside the production doing the behind the scenes things has been worth it because of that. Because of the growth of the kids.
Last year when I took over the drama department, I was excited but petrified. I felt the weight of the world on me. I wanted the department to grow and be successful. And? I think we did it. At rehearsals, I see kids laughing, getting into character, bringing energy to the show. I see more students wanting to join. I see seniors sad to leave, and who will be missed dearly. I see kids coming together, working together, and being a family. Despite every challenge we've faced, this department is truly a family.
As the show comes to an end, I can't help but feel a mix of emotions. I feel happy because I truly believe the students have learned, grown, and are showcasing their very best selves. I am sad because the family we have cultivated won't meet again as we currently are. Seniors are leaving. Some students may decide theatre isn't their thing. But I am also happy, because so many students are already asking about next year's auditions. Happy, Sad. Happy, Sad. (Get it?)
Overall, I am truly proud of these students. They are sassy, talented, fiesty, determined, passionate, loud, and a little crazy, and we love them being a part of this drama family. Thank you parents and guardians, for letting us borrow your kids for this production. We've probably seen them as much as (if not more) than you have recently. Thank you to everyone who donated their time, wares, talents, and money. Thank you to everyone who told others to come see the show. Thank you to everyone who is here supporting these kids. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
And, of course, thank you to my students. Yes, I yell and get angry. Yes, I change my mind. But I also am truly grateful for you all (yes, all!). You all are great kids and performers. Thank you for auditioning and sticking out the process. Thank you for giving your time and energy to this production. Thank you for dealing with a lot of reruns and mind changes. Thank you for being you. To thank you, I am going to give you some advice. Be present and mindful. Be in the moment. Have fun and experience all that high school has to offer. Because of course, the end is just around the corner. (;
Enjoy our show!
Miss Fox
