playbill vip

One of the reasons I love theatre is that it not only entertains us, but it encourages us to explore and learn about perspectives and life experiences different than our own. During the process of directing Hairspray I have learned so much from not only my current students, but also the two incredible Burke Alumni who chose to come back to work on the show with me.

Taylor Adams, a 2016 Burke graduate, graduated from Creighton University with B.A. in Theatre in 2020, and plans to pursue an MFA in Theatre Direction starting this fall at East 15 Acting School in London. Nadia Ra'Shaun, a 2017 Burke graduate, joins us from New York City having toured with the National Tour of Hairspray and The Book of Mormon. Both brought such unique and needed perspectives to this process.  I am beyond grateful for their willingness to come back to serve the students of Burke, and to continue to push me to grow as a director and person. 

This is what Hairspray teaches us. How to open our hearts and minds to others, to listen, and use those experiences to inform our future choices. I invite you to watch this show and to take a step back in time to a different era, but reflect on how many of the challenges these characters face are still a reality today. I also hope you take the energy and spirit of the story with you, remembering together we can do so much more to overcome what has divided us in the past. Enjoy the show and don’t forget – you’ve gotta dream big to be big!

-Mrs. Emily Mokrycki, Director   

EDUCATIONAL GUIDE

Please scan the QR below for an

Educational Guide about the production.

SPECIAL THANKS

Craig Horobik, for headshots

Beth King, for vocal lessons

Scott Noble, for financial donation for mics, costumes & wigs

Kathy Tyree, for inclusion workshop

Alvine Engineering, for Gold Member Sponsorship

Burke Alumni Assoication, for organizing Alumni Night

Burke Stagecraft class, for set build & painting

Crane River Theater, for prop and set rental

Omaha Community Playhouse, for prop assistance

Burke Vocal and Theatre Boosters Board

Burke Musical Parent Volunteers