playbill vip

DIRECTOR'S NOTE: 

After two years of being

submerged in the pandemic, we did it. Collectively, we created art and told stories.

When choosing this script for the students, I wanted to challenge the students to produce work that is 2500 years old but still resonates with audiences today. Medea felt like the perfect piece, in a time when so much turmoil, in-fighting, the quest for power, and grief ripples through the fabric of America. 

As we read through the script, we asked an important question. When does Medea occur? We know, we know, it was written 2500 years ago, but what would happen to the design, the message, and the story, if we put it in a post-modern civil war America. We didn't want to go too far into the future. Rather, what if a civil war occurred tomorrow? What would America look like, and how would the war impact these characters' lives. We continued to ask this question over and over again, as we created stories using physical theatre, puppetry, lighting, and choral moments. 

Just like many of you, this was no easy task. Masks, snow days, covid, and restrictions continue to present hurdles to our cast and crew. However, in an era where Broadway is searching back 7 years to fill their role of Elfeba, this is happening here, right in our own communities. We know the wonderment of our students, their resilience, and their grit. We know they are capable of doing incredible things. It is very likely, that even in today's performance you will see students step into roles for the first time just as the professionals do on Broadway.

But, most importantly, Rock Ridge is excited to share with you their "Medea", while celebrating your successes at the Festival as well. After two years of being apart, we are simply excited to unite with all of you and elevate the theatre community once again. 

Enjoy!

Tony Cimino-Johnson

A SPECIAL THANK YOU FOR MAKING THEATRE POSSIBLE!

• The Administration for your continued compassion and support.

• The Faculty and Staff of RRHS.

• The spouses and significant others for your sacrifices and for allowing us to pursue our passions.

• Mr. John Duellman for your Vision.

• Mark Rogers, LCPS Theatre Arts Specialist, for his support and vision.
• Michael Pierson, LCPS Fine Arts Supervisor, for his support and vision. 

• The Rock Ridge High School Custodial Crew.

• The RRPA Boosters Program.

• The Community for your continued support.

• YOU the Audience for making theatre possible!

• Mr. CJ, Mr. Johnson, Mr. Markwood, and Miss Hess for your mentorship and leadership