When we decided to do Crazy For You this year, I knew we were in for a major challenge. The show contains 23 songs, 8-minute dance numbers, numerous costumes, unique props, and huge sets. It is not a challenge to be taken lightly.
I would actually venture to say that this production is the largest, most complex show we have done since I began directing here 16 years ago.
Because the show contains a great deal of tap dancing, the cast all agreed to “Summer Tap Camp.” We met every week in the high school dance studio and learned the basics of tap. I am always amazed by the learning capacity of our theater kids. TAP IS HARD! Still, the sheer tenacity of our kids persevered through many frustrating and difficult combinations until they got it. Here’s the thing about theater kids...they live, eat, and breathe theater! They just can’t get enough and when I say something like, “Maybe I should make this a little simpler” they rebel and promise they will get it! Parents, you knew this tactic!
The staff is the same. I wish for the moon and they get me as close as possible. I am so blessed to work with such creative and talented people. Everyone involved with our productions are dedicated artists and educators. We were especially fortunate to have a generous and talented group of parent volunteers for this show. We have had a steady group of gracious parents building, sewing, and painting the amazing sets and costumes you will be seeing tonight on this stage. They are breathtaking.
For the past eight weeks we have danced, and painted, and built, and sewed, and sang, and worked until we were bone tired so that we could bring you this funny, beautiful, and memorable show. We give you this gift which has taken us many weeks to wrap; a gift that says “thank you” for always supporting our theater program and our performing arts students. We hope you enjoy it!
JOe huBer
