This year Smyrna High School presented Music Man, the musical. The Director, Jamie DeLoach, decided the musical to be her swan song. She is leaving Delaware to be married this summer and move to Pennsylvania. I was happy to be involved again this year as music director. The student auditions were very good. Each student really showed confidence in their acting and singing ability. As we started to assign character parts, we realized that we needed to have more than our usual 3 day performance and added an extra day, scheduling it for two consecutive weekends.
The music was not easy and not well known to most of 
the students. However, almost half of the cast were chorus, band, and drama students. Every Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 6-9pm we met and practiced. It is quite a responsibility and commitment for both parent and student. My reward is to inspire the kids to "break free" and shine. They get to understand the talent and great potential in each other as they share the joy of performing with each other. Last weekend was their final show(s). They were wonderful and we had a blast at the cast party. A teacher from school district moonlights as a DJ. He played 80s music. I haven't danced in almost 10 years! It was fun to learn the new dances with the kids.
the students. However, almost half of the cast were chorus, band, and drama students. Every Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 6-9pm we met and practiced. It is quite a responsibility and commitment for both parent and student. My reward is to inspire the kids to "break free" and shine. They get to understand the talent and great potential in each other as they share the joy of performing with each other. Last weekend was their final show(s). They were wonderful and we had a blast at the cast party. A teacher from school district moonlights as a DJ. He played 80s music. I haven't danced in almost 10 years! It was fun to learn the new dances with the kids.
Usually, just after a first few rehearsals the cast becomes a family (my kids) and are very supportive of each other. New friendships and blossoming personalities and talents keep me inspired and joyous as we share the experience of "being in it together!" For some, there were many firsts: first kiss, first boy-girl dance and holding hands, first solo, first performance, first love of self. Memories that every young adult should have!This past year has been especially rewarding because I have been invited to several musical events: choir solos, college plays, 
and instrumental performances by former "SHS Musical/Band" students that are now adults in college or married. I have been honored and thrilled to attend them. Also, my youngest brothers and sisters in church are inviting me to their school plays, chorus, and band events too!
and instrumental performances by former "SHS Musical/Band" students that are now adults in college or married. I have been honored and thrilled to attend them. Also, my youngest brothers and sisters in church are inviting me to their school plays, chorus, and band events too! This summer I am going to direct my first musical play "Nunsense" at the Smyrna Opera House. I am so nervous, but mostly excited to increase my theatre experience. Senior HS student Alex Marthaler, has agreed to be the Accompanist. Also, I've asked Marissa Parker, a Theatre Major and a Junior in College to be my Assistant Director.
I am so blessed to have the knowledge that we are all connected to each other by God's love through music! MUSIC ROCKS!!! It bridges differences in everything from cultures and communities through the generations. Share the music inside you and you will find new friends everywhere you go!
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