I distinctly remember - while touring Union College as a prospective student - how saddened I was to learn that musical productions were far-and-few-in-between at this school – so sparse, that a classical musical production had not been done in decades. I mean, there is no better way to escape the dreary horrors of paper writing and problem sets than through the glamorous and magical world of musical theatre, right?!
In early November, I stumbled upon an opportunity presented through the Mountebanks emailing list, one asking for any show suggestions for the upcoming terms. Of course, this show was the first to pop in my mind, but I knew right away that such a production would be near impossible! But, with three minutes to spare before my next scheduled meeting, I frantically typed away, drafting up a proposal that - in the end - would somehow win over the Executive Board. Fast forward a few months, a couple thousand emails, and dozens of rehearsal hours and you have an end result that I am sure will leave you with a smile from ear to ear and a tune that won't escape your head.
The Drowsy Chaperone – one of my favorite musicals of all times – speaks to any individual who has ever been transported by the stage. This hilariously nonsensical and over-the-top show strikes a cord with those who use the theatre as an escape from the dreary horrors of the real world or as an avenue to simply be entertained for a few short hours. Bringing together a group of students from all class years, majors, interests, and backgrounds, I cannot think of any other show I would want to serve as my directing debut.
In the past few months, I have made friendships I know will last well beyond closing night, and that is the true glory of musical theatre, in my opnion. This cast - the one you will see tonight - has become a family, one that I cannot be any more proud of in accomplishing what many had labeled as an “impossible feat.” This cast has - whether they realize it or not - made me one of the happiest students on this campus. I cannot think of a group of peers that I would rather direct than those you see listed in this playbill!
Now sit back, relax, and prepare to be transported to the decadent world of the 1920s! I can't wait!
Lucas Rivers
Director
