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It is my pleasure to welcome you to Sun Prairie High School’s Production of THE PAJAMA GAME!

When deciding on what show to produce this year, we wanted to choose a classic show to give our students an opportunity to experience a new style of theater and this perfect little gem was discovered. What I personally love about THE PAJAMA GAME is that it is not produced very often (although I have no idea why!), its music is catchy and memorable, and it allows me to talk to the cast about both a time period they haven’t lived in and the social issues present both at that time and today. Throughout the rehearsal process, we have had discussions about the creation and purpose of unions, the 1950s workplace gender roles, and the many faces of love and relationships.

For those who aren’t familiar with the show, THE PAJAMA GAME has won numerous Tony Awards from the original Broadway production from 1954 and then again from its revival in 2006. Also, many of you may remember the 1957 movie version starring Doris Day. I hope that once you see this show, you’ll know why it is such a gem. The storyline is easy to follow but contains conflicts necessary for a good drama and the music allows for creative choreography that Bob Fosse first took a stab at to start his career. All in all, this musical is one I will always have a special place for in my heart.

As usual, I have been thoroughly impressed with the students throughout this production process. Their focus and creativity these past two months has been incredible. Every show has its challenges and THE PAJAMA GAME is no exception. Led by our stage management team, the cast and crew have once again outdone themselves. With over 100 students involved in total, the overall level of dedication and enthusiasm from all has been tremendous!

With any theatrical production, so much time and effort are put forth behind the scenes. A very special thank you goes to our production staff and volunteers, including: Amy Frank, Kelsey Odorizzi, Lindsey Hoel-Neds, Sharon White, Rob Wagner, Maddy Werschem, Tim McCarthy, Steve Sveum, and Kyle Spradling. The work they put into this show and in teaching our students is incredible. I am so thankful to be able to work with enthusiastic adults who love theater as much as I do and are willing to think outside of the box with me!

In addition to the production staff for this show, I want to thank the families of our cast and crew who helped to make this production a reality. A special thanks to Heidi Weber and her parent volunteer crew for feeding us throughout! To all of my students’ parents and guardians, thank you for volunteering your time and talents with us, and most importantly for lending us your children for the past couple of months!

Theater provides its audience with an escape from real life for a couple of hours. It gives you a chance to fall in love, cheer for the underdog, and laugh or cry with the characters. I urge you to let THE PAJAMA GAME move you in some way: tell someone that you care, fight for what you believe in, or simply just tap your feet along to the amazing music. Now, sit forward and smile as you watch this story unfold onstage. And most importantly, please have fun as you watch. :)

Thank you and enjoy the show!

Marsha Heuer

Director & Choreographer