Director’s Notes
Anything Goes has been a fun and ambitious journey for everyone involved. From our first rehearsal, this production has been driven by a spirit of collaboration, creativity, and a shared commitment to bringing this classic musical to life. We set out to honor the timeless charm, humor and elegance of the show while also bringing our own energy and perspective.
This has also been a particularly meaningful experience for me as a director. This is my first time working on a Golden Age musical, and it has challenged me to step outside of my comfort zone in the best possible way. Embracing this style pushed me to grow alongside my students and I am so proud of the world we have created together.
This production is even more special because it marks my first class at Oakton that I have had for all four years. We began our journey together with Mean Girls, then moved to Pippin, Into the Woods, and Little Shop of Horrors and now close this chapter with Anything Goes. This group of students has truly experienced the full spectrum of musical theatre styles and they have approached each one with full heart, commitment, and a willingness to take on new challenges. Time and time again, they have proven that Oakton Theatre can truly do anything.
This class holds a very special place in my heart. They have not only grown as performers and techies but they have also grown alongside me as I transitioned from teaching middle school to high school. That shift is a whole new world and these students have been a part of that journey every step of the way. We have been through so much together over these four years and I will never forget this incredibly talented, hardworking, and dedicated group. I will truly miss them.
One of the most exciting aspects of this production has been building the world of Anything Goes. From the glamorous costumes to the intricate set pieces, our tech team worked tirelessly to capture the sophistication and playfulness of this high-seas adventure. Our students truly took a blank canvas and brought it to life. From the moment the show begins you will see their creativity everywhere you won’t be able to stop watching all of the technical elements working together to support the story. The tech side of theatre has always been one of my favorite parts of the process and this group has made it especially rewarding.
Our entire company from actors to techies has approached this production with full heart. Even after a full year of performances these students are always hungry for more, consistently bringing passion, energy and love into their work. You will see that dedication shine through tonight in everything from the dynamic choreography to the sharp comedic moments.
This show would not have been possible without the incredible team that supported it. I am so grateful to our music director, Dj Godinez for helping our actors sound so beautiful and powerful and to our orchestra director for leading such a talented group of musicians through this challenging and exciting score. There's nothing quite like live music. A huge thank you to our choreographers, Suzy Alden, John Poncy and Sam Condro for creating energetic, joyful, and story-driven dance numbers that bring this show to life.
I would also like to recognize our student Choreographer, John Poncy who not only plays Billy but also stepped up in a major way to help choreograph, clean and lead many of the dance numbers. Balancing the demands of a lead role while supporting the entire cast is no small task and we are incredibly lucky to have his leadership, creativity and dedication. He has helped build confidence across the company and truly embodies what it means to lead through heart and compassion.
It truly takes a village to create art and this production is a testament to that. Thank you for supporting Oakton Theatre and our students. We hope you enjoy Anything Goes as much as we have enjoyed bringing it to life.
-Samantha Jalajel
