"I’m who I am and I think that’s worth fighting for!" - possibly the best lyrics in the entire show. What could be a stronger message than "fight for who you are and never regret that"?
From start to finish as you watch The Prom, you may many times think to yourself, "how silly this is; so far-fetched!", but I’m here to tell you this comedy extravaganza is actually inspired by a true story. Specifically, by the case of Constance McMillen, a High School senior in Mississippi, who was prohibited from bringing her girlfriend to her prom and who challenged the school's decision. While both the musical and film adaptation fictionalize the true events, they draw heavily from real-life incidents of discrimination and the ongoing fight for LGBTQ+ rights. It seems too simple to say we should all have the same privileges, and oftentimes those of us who have these privileges tend to take them for granted. Well, this story takes us on that journey and does its best to show us all that no matter what path we walk on, we all want the same thing - acceptance, love, and a community to belong to.
Musical theater has always set out to change hearts and minds and to make people think. In directing this musical, I was faced with the difficult task of making sure everyone saw the story from the perspective of our main character, Emma Nolan. It is so important to try to understand and accept one another. No matter what your beliefs are or where you come from, we can all agree that being true to our authentic selves and showing love in any form should be celebrated. As Trent sings in the second act, the most important thing we can do as humans is to “love thy neighbor”. The Prom reminds us that you may not always agree with someone’s choices, but you can show love and acceptance, while fighting for someone’s rights to stand equally with you, in those choices. This story recognizes how we all have the power to change our world for the better and I hope the show inspires you to do just that.
I encourage you to open your minds tonight as you embark on this journey; laugh with us and maybe even cry - feel all the feelings, even the hard ones. I’m sure if you look hard enough you will see yourself in some of the characters or maybe even someone you love. This show and these characters are a reminder that we all have our own free will, thoughts, opinions, and perspectives, but life is most special when we recognize and embrace our differences and can still come together, united in friendship and love. Let this story remind us that no matter what your point of view is, one thing you can always be in this life is KIND. It’s free and it never goes out of style. Now sit back, relax under the stars, and enjoy The Prom!
Francesco Carlo Archina
Director
“Love is Love is Love is Love is Love is Love is Love.” -Lin Manuel Miranda
