More than a year ago, we performed Lion King, Jr on stage and I was on top of the world from my first experience in the role of producer for a Paperhouse production. While I definitely needed a little rest, I couldn't wait to start planning the "big show" for 2021. Little did I realize that the world as we knew it was about to change. Over the next few weeks, we counted our blessings as we felt such sadness - so grateful we were on one of the fortunate few able to see all our kids' hard work come to fruition as the country watched every school, community theatre and even Broadway stop rehearsing and performing. We clung to our memories as we hoarded toilet paper and tried our hand at sewing face masks. It suddenly felt like we were living in a movie - and not the kind I'd like to produce!
Jump forward 6 months and it was time to consider our options - cancel any plans for a show in 2021 or find a way to demonstrate to our kids the motto of the theatre community - The Show Must Go On! We delayed, observed, surveyed, researched, and ultimately laid out a plan - still built on unknowns but determined "to fight for the right without question or pause" (thank you Man of La Mancha)! Four months later we started rehearsing remotely over Zoom. At the very least, I kept telling myself, we were providing something for the kids to do when so much else was cancelled. By March, we started meeting in small groups outside to rehearse in person. However still unable to plan ahead for a live in-person performance due to restrictions and logistics, we made the decison to film our show and present it as a video, thanks to the example of others in the theatre community and Music Theatre International. I admit I was skeptical - it was a different journey, but, wow, was it worth taking!
This video is the result of a lot of hard work, love, sweat, cold toes (hey, those March rehearsals were chilly!) and the word of the year - FLEXIBILITY! I love these kids - so willing to go with the flow! Thank you so much to the parents who trusted and supported us as we battled weather, quarantine, scheduling conflicts, and the unknowns. I can't express my appreciation enough for how adaptable everyone was!!
I want to thank our 8th graders - Andrew, Ashley, Brianna, Hailey, Jack, Paige & Tessa - for staying with us for their final 'big show'. I know it wasn't the experience they hoped for but I also know this experience will stay with them as they remember the year of the pandemic!
Finally, I have to thank my partners-in-craziness - Heather, Julia & Joe! I love the team we've forged and their creativity, enthusiasm, patience and artistry has turned this endeavor into another amazing adventure. I couldn't be prouder of them and what we've accomplished.
Karen Feinberg
Producer, Dear Edwina, Jr
