Letter From The Director:
First of all WELCOME BACK!! When I first came to Stevenson I knew at some point I wanted to direct High School Musical Jr. As I have said any chance I got; it only made sense as we are the Wildcats. In addition, it held a special place in my heart because I can remember the movie coming out on the Disney Channel when I was in 8th grade, and for the first time, it felt like I was seeing a movie that made being in theatre seem like something that was cool in the opinion of others, now 15 years later I think that it continues to still have that legacy.
I know many students struggled with the isolation that came with virtual learning and one of the things I was most looking forward to as rehearsals began was seeing the friendships form because it has become something I expect, but what I wasn't expecting was to see how much joy it brought me to have students back in my room rehearsing at 7:45 in the morning, staying for rehearsals even when they may not have been on the schedule in the afternoon and seeing the connections form over the last two months that many students have been without for the last 18+ months. But I think the most important thing I took from this show though was the reminder in one of the final numbers that "we're all in this together", this has been a constant reminder since we first went virtual but it was reinforced as we came back together in person on stage this year. I have watched this cast lift one another and motivate each other even during the rough rehearsals to be the best possible version of themselves each day, and they have made me a better director through it all. As well, as I have received with this show from many individuals in the community.
On a final note, I want to say a special thank you to all the parents who have supported me over the years and especially this year. I have seen and appreciated all the kind words and offers for donations and assistance over the last two months. I can't say thank you enough, you have been unsung heroes to me throughout the course of this show.
I hope you enjoy our production of High School Musical Jr. and I look forward to seeing you at our future shows.
