Lori Larson, Director: This program is near and dear to my heart. To see these young people grow as performers and individuals is so rewarding. We started off thinking we had more assistance and came together as a dynamic team! The cast took the ball and ran with it. It was the first time in the 10-plus years at TheatreWorks New Milford that we had a set and lighting designed specifically for our production. We usually share with the Main Stage, so this was a special treat. Thanks to the Board of Directors of TheatreWorks New Milford for taking a chance on this production. The set, lighting, sound, and projections all going on at the same time are only possible with the best of the best, who made the magic happen. Kevin McNulty, Leif Smith, Steve Larson, and Devon Langworthy. This was one heck of a ride! Thanks for supporting local theatre.
Kevin McNulty, Music Director: Thank you for coming, and welcome to Ride the Cyclone! You are in for a comedic but...existential treat. Be prepared as we travel through the lives of 6 teenagers and experience their lives flash before their eyes as they die in a horrific roller coaster accident. All the ups and downs of their lives are brought to light: Hopes, thoughts, dreams, and secrets are discovered, as Karnak, the narrator in this Twilight Zone-esque story, leaves no stone unturned. They are made to reflect on what makes them who they are, and ask themselves a critical question: Who among us is the most deserving of life? As each teenager experiences an existential crisis, you in the audience will have your own as you slowly realize this is the plot of another famous musical disguised as dead teenagers in a roller coaster accident. (Count Dogulos, that SOB...)
Doing musical theatre is my life's greatest passion. I do not know who I would be without it. I thank Lori everyday for taking a chance on me 6 years ago, giving me the opportunity to music direct. My success as a music director would not have happened without her. To the students performing in the St. Cassian Chamber Choir this weekend, thank you for putting up with me and being just as passionate about this show as I am. I am thankful for the time we all got to spend together, going round 'n round 'n round. Getting to do this show with you all has been a dream, and though I know the sun is rising while decsending on this production, I know your passion for musical theatre will never end. I hope to one day work with each and every one of you again, and go round 'n round 'n round again in this amazing art that is musical theatre.
