Notes from the Director:
Initially, I was absolutely terrified of undertaking the production of Shrek as my first show. It is an absolutely massive show, with tons of sets, props, costumes, etc. However, I once I saw the talent level and dedication of the students, alongside with the years of experience and advice I got from Miss Valentine and Mrs. Gifford, I knew without a doubt that this show was going to be an absolute hit.
Hundreds of hours of rehearsals, plus hundreds more in set contruction, prop design, painting, costuming, polishing, cleaning, tightening, critiquing, and many other verbs that could apply have been spent by everyone in the cast.
Getting this many people to work together to produce a single product is never easy. Then, make those people very creative and theatre lovers, it has the potential to be almost impossible. However, this cast has been, except for some jokes, very mature, hard working, determined, and willing to put something greater than themselves ahead of their own ego. People won't always get along, but they always put the differences aside and work together to get the job done and don't let outside problems interfere with the production. Whether they had their character's name on the poster, played several characters, just one, or were in tech, every single person's role is absolutely integral to the production of the show. The commitment from every person in the entire cast and crew has been an absolute blessing in making my first production all that much easier.
Special thanks to:
NW-SCC Foundation - Thank you for helping secure the lumber donation from Home Depot and reimbursing the out of pocket costs for this production. Much of what you see on stage is thanks to you.
Trish Campbell - That chance meeting in Wal-Mart took absolute loads of stress off my shoulders. I still cannot find the adequate words to thank you for what you have done for us.
Lisa Valentine and Gene Anne "Momma" Gifford - Our experience in a previous show together, I think, helped forge a bond that allowed us all to come together to always keep each other on the same level, support and back up, and also respectfully comment about plans, schedules, rehearsals, etc. and not get upset. Rather, we would listen to work together towards a similar goal of putting on a great production. I literally could not have asked for greater friends and directors for this show. We all have drastically different teaching methods, but together, I feel, rounds us out very well.
Nona and Leila - I cannot find the words sincere and deep enough to apologize and give enough appreciation for you both. My 12 to 17 hour long days, and 70 hour long weeks in March and April, and leaving before anyone's awake and getting home after everyone's asleep, I can't imagine the loneliness it inflicted. You were with Leila 24/7 without a single day off as well. It's not fair to you. Even on weekends, I was recovering and not able to do much of anything left you still feeling alone. I am so terribly sorry from the bottom of my soul. However, coming home, seeing Leila run towards me yelling, "Daddy! I'm so glad you're home!" and giving me a big hug, let me know that it will all be ok. There is no phrase in the english language that I know that can express my deepest of love for you both. It's almost over. I'm going to need a nap first, but I'll be home soon.
