I have said it before, but it is entirely fitting that performances of the Upper School musical straddle the months of February and March, when our school focuses on the Country School values commitment and cooperation. Anyone who saw the production of Alice in Wonderland that took the stage this past weekend had to have been captivated by the extraordinary stage presence of our students, by their dazzling acting, singing, and dancing, and by the stunning costumes, scenery, make up, and staging.
But as fantastic as the show is, what appears on the stage only tells part of the story. Our student actors began tryouts for the play early in the fall. Our directors and producers began planning as last year’s production ended. Our numerous parent volunteers – who do everything from creating the spectacular costuming to directing our stage crews to working out the stunning special effects – have devoted innumerable hours to making sure that our students shine. Steadfastness of purpose, untiring effort, team work, perseverance, collaboration, carry through – all these components of commitment and cooperation were present in abundance from all who contributed to the overwhelming success of Alice in Wonderland.
Equally compelling parts of the Upper School musical experience are the behind-the-scenes lessons that occur during the months the show is in production. Students learned not just about the technical aspects of putting on a musical. They also learned about being part of something greater than oneself; about “doing their best always”; about stretching to create excellence; about collaborating to create a “whole” greater than each of its parts… all key lessons in an increasingly uncertain world.To show our community’s appreciation for those who made the production all that it is, let’s pack the house for the closing performances of Alice in Wonderland. Anyone who comes will be treated to some great entertainment – and will witness the power that true commitment and cooperation can create.