Team -
It’s the fourth quarter. The crucible. The messy middle of the academic storm.
Where time is short, emotions run long, and every kid I know is dragging their heavy backpack full of deadlines, doubts, and drama through the final weeks of the year.
And yet—they showed up.
Not just in body, but in spirit. In focus. In fire.
Hope Springs arrives like a wild bird flapping into this moment—poetic, untamed, mysterious—and my Drama II students somehow managed to build the nest for it to land.
To say I’m proud is an understatement. To say I’m grateful doesn’t go far enough.
This play was never going to be easy. Its structure bends and splinters. Its characters live in dream logic. It doesn’t offer answers, just aching questions. And still—Drama II stood up. They leaned in. They brought their full selves to the work.
If I’m honest, I don’t feel I was always as present as I wanted to be. I wasn’t always able to meet every production dream you had. But this class—you students—you came together anyway. You created Hope Springs. You made it happen.
So let this director’s note be a love letter. A poetic thank you. A salute.
To Megan Dinicola – I’ve had the honor of teaching you for four years. You are a force of good in this world—a steady, resilient soul who rises to meet the challenge no matter how steep. You think deeply, work tirelessly, and lead with grace. You are one of the most quietly powerful students I’ve ever known. Watching your journey as student director—your calm, your command, your unshakable presence—was a gift. I respect you with all my heart.
To Kayden Ives – Kayden, your journey to this night has been profound. You’ve grown into an actor of remarkable rawness and depth. Your emotional truth onstage is magnetic, electric, undeniable. You don’t perform—you live in the moment. I will miss your spirit in this class. Thank you for every note of honesty. I send my love to follow you like a shadow forevermore.
To Ozzy Layton – Mr. Stagedive. The very spirit of metal and myth. You are an old soul with a punk heart—a voice that echoes with rebellion and history. You remind me of my own roots in this world. You left, returned, and came back with more to say. You are the kind of performer who must perform, who has no choice but to answer the call. You bring your signature sound and fire to every room.
