What you are witnessing on this stage is a work of deep, compassionate love combined with an outpouring of raw emotion. Furthermore, you are seeing a collective of several months worth of blood (yes, literally!), sweat, and tears which just makes this production all the more meaningful to all involved.
"I feel you, right beside me"
It amazes me how shocked people are when they hear that the 2018 SGF production is GHOST. Responses varied from, "I didn't even know that was a musical," to "I can't believe someone is actually producing this." Choosing a show for this year was prompted specifically by a strong desire to pay tribute to an influential former student, Nicholas Heald, who passed away in July after an extremely courageous seven year battle with throat cancer. This show includes all of the components that Nick so loved about musical theatre - a suspenseful plot, a score with plenty of rock ballads, and a powerful message that leaves audiences breathless. Additionally, this story tells a tale similar to Nick and his beautiful wife, Courtney's love story. Nick has been with us throughout this rehearsal process and it is with great pride that we dedicate this production to his memory. Miss and love you, Nicholas. xoxo
"Come what may - nothing stops another day"
I had an incredible team to work with this year - one that was literally unstoppable. My most sincere gratitude goes out to the amazing colleagues and friends, as well as the parent and student volunteers, that came together to create this moving production. Your dedication has not gone unnoticed and it is very much appreciated. I am certainly the most fortunate high school theatre director to have the opportunity to collaborate with such kind, enthusiastic, and dedicated people. Immense gratitude to John, Mallory, Donna, Laurie, Stacy, Bill, Paul, Judy, Chris, Bill, Warren, Kristyn, Kathleen, and Lauren. I am so honored to have you on my team - thank you for being unstoppable!
"It's amazing - the love inside, you take it with you."
Theatre education makes such a lasting impact and I consider myself fortunate to guide such loving and talented students on their personal journeys. Ensuring that each student receives a diverse experience that caters to the mind, body, and voice - with an especially strong emphasis on character development - has been the ultimate priority. This fine-tuned process has enabled us to develop strong bonds, memories, and experiences. I must say, however, that I am truly the luckiest director. To have students who always look out for each other, as well as their director, is truly a gift. To the Cast and Crew - thank you for always keeping me caffeinated and for providing endless amounts of love. They say that "your vibe attracts your tribe." Boy, do I have the most kind-hearted tribe flocking to this auditorium!
I must admit, however, that this is one of the most bittersweet moments as I am in my final days as director to an amazingly talented group of students. To the Class of 2018 - you have filled my heart with love and laughter for many years. I will cherish the memories made and the lessons learned as well as the love you've given to me, my family, and "Stage 42." You're about to embark upon new paths and I am overjoyed to see what transpires. Know that wherever life leads, you have a piece of my heart. What more can I say to you other than, "ditto?"
Betsy Stambach-Fuller
