Notes from the Director
Dear Friends and Family,
As you settle in for this evening’s performance of Moana, JR, we invite you to reflect on the incredible journey that has led us all here. This production has been a true labor of love, born from countless hours of hard work, passion, and collaboration by our talented students. Over the many months of rehearsals, these young performers have not only honed their individual skills but have also created unbreakable bonds with one another, much like Moana does with her friends on her quest to save her island. Their journey began with the exhilarating experience of presenting a 15-minute adjudicated version at the Junior Theater Festival in Atlanta, where they received a trophy for excellence, invaluable feedback and encouragement. That moment served as a catalyst, igniting their commitment and deepening their connection to the story and each other.
Tonight, as you witness their transformation from budding performers to confident storytellers, we hope you will appreciate that this production is more than just a story of courage and self-discovery; it is a reflection of our students’ growth through challenges, resilience, and the willingness to embrace the unknown. Just as Moana learns to embrace her identity and find her voice, our students have faced their own challenges and risen to meet them with grace and determination. As adults, we are proud beyond words and deeply appreciative of their journey, as it reminds us that the path we travel—full of trials and triumphs—shapes who we are and prepares us for future adventures.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the entire school community, our dedicated leaders, technical staff, artisans, donors, sponsors, and supporters of the arts for making this evening possible. Your unwavering support fosters a nurturing environment where creativity flourishes and dreams become reality. So as you enjoy the magic of Moana, we invite you to celebrate not only their remarkable talent but also the collective spirit and commitment they have poured into this production. Thank you for supporting our young artists and joining us on this unforgettable journey!
With gratitude and excitement,
Dr. LaMar Bagley
Producing Artistic Director
