After being a cast member in 13 nearly ten years ago, I have always wanted to return back to Dan Quayle Junior High, and I am so thrilled to be the director and choreographer of this production! 13 is a musical jam-packed with powerful vocals and dynamic characters. We follow Evan Goldman, as he is forced to leave his home in New York City, and move to small-town Indiana. Grappling with his parents' divorce, and preparing for his impending Bar Mitzvah, Evan navigates the complicated social dynamics of a new school, and faces the challenges of becoming a young man. Something so special and unique about this production is how real and true the material feels, as we all may have gone through some of the same challenges and feelings that the characters go through during the show. This show has characters and moments that cast members and you as audience members can find relatability in, as we explore the formative yet sometimes "awkward" years of life. I believe there is a place for everyone in 13, a show where each cast member can embrace their individuality and uniqueness to create characters that feel genuine and honest. I encourage you all as audience members as you watch the show today to envision yourself in one of these characters and their journeys.
I would like to take a moment to shout out and thank the fabulous 13 team. Firstly, Kailee, our Music Director, has from the first moment been such an inspiring person to work with, and she constantly ensures that each cast member feels valued and pushed to grow and succeed. Liv Justice, Assistant Choreographer, has blown me away with her creative visions and work ethic, and I am so proud of her and all of the hard work she has put into this production. Daisy, Assistant Stage Manager, has been such a huge help throughout this entire process, and I am so thankful for her professionalism and kindness. Lastly, Viv, Assistant Director and Stage Manager, has gone above and beyond to make sure everything you see onstage runs smoothly, and I am extremely lucky to work alongside such a creative and driven soul. It truly takes a village, and to this dream team, thank you for going on this journey with me!!
To every parent and volunteer, thank you for the countless hours you all have spent from building sets, pulling and creating costumes, bringing in props, to even just driving cast members to and from rehearsals. It makes me so emotional seeing the YAT parents and volunteers constantly showing up for this cast to contribute to our one big common goal, thank you all! Additionally, I would also like to extend a huge thank you to everyone at Young Actors’ Theatre for trusting me with this opportunity, and for making this show possible. Lastly, I would like to thank my mom for always believing in me and being my biggest supporter.
Enjoy the show!!
Brice Cloke
13! the Musical! Director & Choreographer
