Special Thanks to...
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Frank Sanchez, Helen Tate and the Administration of Rhode Island College
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Ian Greitzer, Department Chair, Music Theatre, and Dance
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College Events and Conference Services (CESC) Staff
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Scarlett Lewis, CEO and Founder of The Jesse Lewis Choose Love Foundation
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The People of Newtown who shared their story
Director's Note:
This past year the Performing arts have suffered in ways that seem almost impossible to recover from. We watched our entire industry shut down in a matter of days. In the following months we were unable to file for unemployment, unable to use our skill sets to get new jobs, and we watched the lights on Broadway go out. We still are so uncertain of our futures a year later. To be honored with the opportunity to come back to the theater and create something so meaningful has been a blessing to me in ways I cannot even begin to explain. I have been absolutely privileged to work with such an amazing production team. A year ago I was not able to imagine how we could possibly create this show during a global pandemic, but with the dedication, endless problem solving, and ability to adapt to our everchanging environment, I can truly say this production represents what I love the most about theater: Collaboration.
Taking on a show about an event that means so much to the New England community, was terrifying. I had so many moments of doubt. Will we do this community justice? Will we honor these 26 Angels in the absolutely best way possible? This cast has worked tirelessly to ensure that we do just that. The emotion and connection that each actor brings to your screen is raw and real and respectful.
I hope as you watch this show you are reminded of the anguish we all felt December 14, 2012, because in the 9 years since this horrific massacre, we as a nation have not done enough. We have watched it happen again in Parkland, Florida and in many other communities. Too many children have fallen victim to gun violence. Still, as much as we must remember the pain and anger, we must also remember the love and the compassion that we all felt for the Newtown community. We must use that compassion to drive us to do better, through real policy change that will stop any community from going through what Newtown, CT continues to face today.
I hope this production brings you a little love and light, and reminds all my fellow artists that we will come back home.
- Rachel N. Terceira
