As this is my first season directing for The Actor's Garage, I feel especially inclined to express my gratitude for this special community here. Graduating from The University of Chicago only a month before returning to Long Island, I could not be more excited to begin the journey of directing Matilda (a show I have wanted to work on forever!) with such a talented and friendly group of actors. While I have been so throughly impressed by this group of students and loved every second of rehearsals, I have been the most in awe of this community from the start. Everyone has been so kind and has given me the warmest welcome, and for that I am incredibly grateful.
To Ann, Leila, and Mikaila: I want to express how proud and thankful I am to work with such inspirational artists each day. I continue to learn so much from each of you, and I am so happy to work in such a collaborative, caring, and supportive environment. I look forward to continuing to create amazing work in the productions ahead!
To the cast of Matilda: I am so proud of each and every one of you! You are all not only stellar performers, but stellar kids as well who are sure to continue doing amazing things! Seeing how much everyone has grown as actors from day one gives me as a teacher such genuine joy, and I am absolutely thrilled that the community gets to see you all shine first hand. Break legs, everybody!!
Sincerely,
Billy DeVito
