Director's Notes
Disney's Beauty and the Beast is truly a tale as old as time. And its endurance through the years, I believe, is due in part of its emphasis on a theme that transcends the story itself. The Beast is plagued by the sins of his past; he carries his selfish actions that are presented to all who look upon him. His cruelty and selfishness has stripped him of his humanity and made him a monster. He is stuck in his past - an all those around him are dragged into his isolation.
But then enters Belle, who selflessness and willingness to sacrifice herself for her father makes her beauty transcendent. Feeling trapped in a town stuck in their old ways, Belle yearns for adventure. The adventure she experiences tests her resolve and selflessness, and opens up her world to the encounter of the other. Her steadfast selflessness ends up breaking through the selfishness of the Beast, bringing him out of himself and into relationship with others again, restoring his humanity and his dignity through the selfless gift of the self.
This is the story of how we encounter those around us. It is easy for all of us to wear our sins about us and present everyone with a selfish, jaded, and closed-off version of ourselves. Yet, when we are shaken out of this by the sheer beauty that is seen in the abandonment of oneself in selfless service, and when we encounter the compassion of another person, we are transformed and reminded that we are not a beast. We are not the sum of our sins. We are children of God, we are human beings with infinite dignity and worth. We are so much more than what the world tells us. We are beautiful expressions of God's love in this world.
It takes more than a "small provincial town" to put this production together. Conversations have been happening since August about this show and since auditions in December students, parents, and staff have been hard at work to bring you the production you see before you. I am beyond indebted and grateful to all of the parents and volunteers who sacrificed their time to create and coordinate all of the technical aspects of the show. From sets to electrical work, costumes and props, and everything in between the Production Team, Directorial Team and volunteers have proven once again how vital they are to this program. I would also like to thank my family, Tahreem and Lami, for all of their patience and support throughout the months this production took to put together.
I would also like to express my appreciation for our student leaders. They were an absolute joy to work with and it makes me proud to have been able to witness our student leaders refine their leadership abilities and take initiative on this major production.
Finally, to our seniors, congratulations on your final production at Saint Mark's. This cast and crew, but most especially this senior class, have been close to my heart. As this production comes to a close I send off our seniors with blessings, prayers, and an open door that they can always return to the stage here and find a home waiting for them.
Enjoy the show!
Tom Baker
Director
