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A NOTE FROM THE DIRECTOR

“Don’t need to see me, I’m just the third tree from the left on the back
of the stage.” Those lines, or something similar, have been around
for as long as I have been involved in theater (amazingly or sadly
approaching 35 years now). I have found that I have always had a
much better time performing onstage as a member of the ensemble
than in any sort of lead role. When casting this show, I spent a lot of time
considering the background characters and how they have the power
to affect the show. I truly believe from the start that the performers in
the back, acting out the poems and filling out the scenes, always have
an enourmous impact on the quality of the show. With all of my years
in theater, I know ensemble students can sometimes get lost in the
fact they don’t have lines and therefore don’t put forth a good effort in
relation - but that is definitely not the case with the Alice in Wonderland
ensemble! All of the characters, with or without lines, are fantastic in
this show - I can’t remember a more well-rounded group performing
in a non-musical. I have had a ton of fun directing everyone and I am
extremely proud of the end product.

I need to say thank you to Jennifer Butler, who leads the drama
program here with a steady artistic hand and overall vision that
provides the best opportunities for each student to perform to their
potential. Also, thank you to our new high school administration. They
are all working hard to put their mark on the Demon Nation. Mark
Truchon and the custodial staff at the high school, specifically Carol
Yehlik, our cleaner, who makes the space safe for crowds and students
alike every day. And of course my life is much better because I married
my wife, who has managed to stay with me for 25 years.

Alice in Wonderland is a magical tale in a world of make-believe like no
other. Please take some time to go down the rabbit hole with us today
and have some fun. Enjoy the show.

Doug Warnke
November 2021