Traditionally, this is where I would give all of my thanks to everyone for everything they have done to make this production to happen (and give some hints to next year's big show) - and you all know who you are, and that I truly appreciate you. Instead, I would like to take a moment to recognize my seniors that are off on new adventures in the fall.
Before I speak to each of you individually, know that the 11 of you are leaving behind a program that is stronger than when you found your way to it. That is thanks, in no small part, to you! For all of the things that you may have learned from me, just know that I have learned just as much, if not more from you.
Samuel - I know things didn't play out the way we intended, but know that I am so glad that you became a bonus member of our program. You're an incredibly talented young man, and I will forever cherish watching you experience your first Broadway show with us in NYC!
Lillian - It has been awesome getting to know you this in class, in NYC, and backstage. Your sense of humor and creative wit will be sorely missed next year. Continue forging your path, and stay sassy (and sing more - all of the "All You Wanna Do"s on the bus showed me that you have a voice)!
Layza - Crazy to think that you just wanted to help out with tick, tick... BOOM! and I threw you on stage where you hilariously stole the scene. I'm glad you found your way into the drama circle, and I hope that the experience stays with you throughout your filmmaking aspirations.
Carley - I cannot thank you enough for jumping in and taking on such a lead role within the crew world. You learned so much of the ins and outs of what it takes to make a show happen in such a short time - even if Adrian commandeered you as his personal assistant!
Jonathan - What took you so long?! Man, you have such a natural charisma that just oozes from you on stage. From your movement, to your expressions, you truly draw attention in the best possible way. Thank you for going all in, and for always jumping in with whatever it is I need help with.
Isabella - One of the OGs! Thank you for always being you and bringing such unequivocal joy to your performances. As a founding member of our program, you will always have a special place in my heart, and I wish you all of the amazing things you deserve moving forward!
Kayla - It's crazy to think that the young lady (who just played an old lady) is the same person that first auditioned for me three years ago! I know that you are going to do incredible things with IRSC's drama program, and I cannot wait to be in the audience there cheering you on!
Rubens - I love so much about you... your enthusiasm for life, your goofy sense of humor, and most importantly, the fact that you have no idea just how insanely talented you are. I am constantly in awe of how effortlessly you make it all look, and I am so excited for what the future inevitably holds for you!
Steven - You are truly an incredible presence, on stage and off. Our conversations extend well beyond theatre, and I know you are going to go out there and do something incredible. Watching you develop into such a strong performer has brought some of my favorite moments from the past few years. Stay inquisitive, but take a rope with you when you climb down that rabbit hole. :)
Adrian - It is difficult for me to express just how proud I am of you and all that you have accomplished in the three years that I have known you. Your growth on stage alone has been insane, and you will forever be the only person who can say that they were in every TPHS Drama official production to date. Your star burns so bright that people can't help but to notice how amazing you are. When I first met you, in your yellow tutu, I knew you were going to change the world. What I didn't know was how much you were going to change mine. Lucy may have brought you to me, but this program stands firmly on your shoulders. Thank you for helping me build (both literally and figuratively) something truly special, and know that this is only the start of the legacy that you leave behind. The long rehearsals, the summer and weekend builds and painting... the impact will be felt for a long time. Continue to shine, never stop singing, and get out there and make your mark! Go Hatters!
Lucy - It's crazy to think that 7 years ago, I cast you in your first role as the Ugly Duckling in Shrek! Every student that has hit the stage in a TPHS Drama production has you to thank. When you came back to RCSSL to finish what we started with The Little Mermaid (thanks COVID), I told you, "transfer to the high school when it opens, our work isn't done." None of this would exist without you, and I am going to be so lost next year. My solace comes in knowing that you have shown the next generation how to lead with kindness, what hard work and dedication look like, and how to command a stage. You are one of the most incredible young people I have ever encountered, and I could not be more proud of all that you have accomplished, independently, and with our group. I expect an invite the first time they put you on the 50 yard line in the Swamp. Chomp Chomp Gators!
I truly love you all, and know that I mean it when I say once you're one of my kids, you're my kid for life. See you at the alumni concert in December!
All my best - Mr. Laird, Laird, Mr. Blaird (and whatever other names you may call me :P)
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