"13" a HUGE sucess!

It takes a village to put on a show, no matter how "simple." On the face of it, "13" seemed like a fairly simple show to stage: the kids wear their own clothes, minimal to no scenery (use projections), and only a few props. How many shows do I have to do to understand that they are ALL hard.
There are seven (count 'em, SEVEN) production numbers in the show and I had the brilliant choreographer, Jill A. Brighton, who stage all seven with energy, variety, and story-telling genius.

Because we had no sets, we relied heavily (as we always do) on the superb lighting designer at the State Theatre, Greg Ray, who, once again, lit the show beautifully. Lance Royes's sound design, complicated by the fact that the actors switch roles throughout the show, allowed all to hear the very funny book and lyrics and made the kids sound great. Coming to save the day by assisting Lance backstage and organizing all the mic switches was Jasmine Molina who made sure everyone had their mic.

And of course, our stage manager par excellence, Karen Morris, who kept the entire show moving along with flair.

The band was nothing short of spectacular. Desiree Dennis, K.C. Hirth, Carter Freije, and Marshall Biever played with great ability and sensitivity. 

And to the 18 middle school students who made up the cast of "13": you exceeded all expectations tonight. You gave a highly polished, hilarious, and touching performance that moved the audience to gales of laughter, gigantic bursts of applause (I've never heard applause last as long as tonight's did after the opening number!), and even tears.

Well worth the 4 months of rehearsals, don't you think?!

Bravo to all on a job very well done!