There is no life I know to compare to pure imagination, living here, you’ll be free, if you truly wish to be……
Each year as I write my director’s note, I always try to sound witty or make things personal to each show, and what I hope is the takeaway for our audiences. This year, there is not some deeper hidden message, a need for a significant discussion or thought process……
Wonka, Charlie, Grandpa Joe, Veruca, Augustus, Violet, and Mike are all of us in one way or another. At some point, whether we own it or not, we have had dreams that seem impossible to achieve, displayed “ugly” behaviors, and met people that have left an indelible mark on our lives, be it good or bad. It is up to each of us how WE react or respond in these situations. So, in the end the takeaway is a simple one, be grateful for everything and everyone that life puts in your path, there are lessons to learn and dreams to share.
I have had the privilege to work alongside some amazing artists doing this show. They all have tackled this challenging show and have brought their best both on and off the stage. I am so proud of the work they have produced and the humans they have developed into during this process. This cast spans ages 8-18 and truly embodies what we do best here at First Act, creating wonderful productions and cultivating an amazing community while doing it!
I definitely did not do all of this alone. I am immensely grateful for the talent, creativity and vision of my amazing team. Katie Dahlstrom has a way of teaching music that brings both fun and precision to every song. Paige Zars added her own special magic to this show and created some fun and challenging choreography for all ages. And I can’t thank my AD/SM, Gavin Tanner, and Production Coordinator, Kari Bliss, enough for keeping me grounded and sane during the beautiful chaos that is Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. I would be lost in the factory if it wasn’t for both of them!
I also want to thank the amazing parent volunteers that have gone above and beyond to help this show come to life. We say this every show, but we TRULY could not do this without them. Another round of “thanks” is due to our amazing office staff at First Act that keep this machine going day in and day out and to our Board for their countless support. And last, but definitely not least, I want to thank all of YOU, our wonderful patrons that keep coming out to support First Act and these amazing young artists. Thank you for helping us continue to share a bit of theatre magic year after year!
So, just remember that we are all surrounded by glimmers of “golden tickets” every day….it is our choice to see them and grab one!
Michelle Evans
