Kevin's Notes
Mary Poppins is by far the most technical and expensive show that we have produced at The Theatre Downstream; but WOW, what an amazing show that we have put together. I told the production team from the very beginning that we wanted to make this a magical moment for everyone who came to see this show. I believe we accomplished that goal!
It is always a joy and privilege for me to co-direct alongside the talented Ashley Raymer-Brown. However, this show woudn't be what it has become if it weren't for the amazing efforts of the entire production team. A sincere thank you is extended to Lori, who took on this huge show as her first Stage Managing gig and allows me to text without punctuation. Thank you, Liz & Angela, who simply get-it-done; I don't worry about costumes or props, because I know that you have it under control. Brian, you and everyone who helped work on the sets did a fantastic job! Megan, thanks for stepping up (pun intended) and being our choreographer. I hope you will be a regular part of our theatre family. Josh, thank you for sharing your piano playing skills with us once again. Your talents are admired and your humility adored. Sharla, you're my favorite music director and the only one who knows how to truly make my heart sing. To the entire cast, I am so proud of the way you've worked together to bring to life this heart warming story.
There are so many others that I would like to thank by name, but I simply don't have the space. With that said, there is one final group that I must express my deep appreciation for your hardwork and dedication, our Fly Operators. Thank you Keith, Jon & Seth for keeping Mary & Bert flying safely!
Ashley's Notes
This show represents many historic 'firsts' for TTD. It is the first time we've ever had so many people come to one of our auditions (over 70!), the first time we've attempted such a technically complicated show, and the first time we've almost sold out prior to opening night.
As my esteemed Co-Director Kevin mentioned, the crew has worked exceptionally hard to bring the skeleton of this show to life, but it is the cast who truly make it come alive. All of our principal characters have gone above and beyond (and sometimes flown) to get there! We could not be more pleased or proud of them, or more humbled that in this busy world we live in, they chose to spend the last three months of their lives with us and our dreams for this show.
Our ensemble has had the doubly difficult task of not only learning some very complicated songs and dances, but also the tough and thankless job of making sure that the transistions from scene to scene run as smoothly, and quickly, as possible. They have more than risen to the occassion.
When I think back to two years ago, and the moment the tiny group of us first had the idea for a community theatre, I can't help but feel astonished at the level of professionalism we've reached in such a short time. Never did we dream that so many people would believe in us or want to attend our shows.
Thank you to you, our audience, for making our dreams come true. Mary Poppins truly was right when she said, "Anything can happen...It's a marvel."
