Director’s Note

2012 marks the 60th Anniversary of Singin’ in the Rain, the iconic MGM movie musical featuring the transition from silent movies to talking pictures. From crazy costume changes, shooting, editing, and projecting both silent and talking period films, to tap dancing, 13 actors playing over 50 roles, more dialogue than normally appears in a musical, not to mention the whole “rain” aspect as well as the iconic images and character portrayals from a beloved movie, this is without question the most difficult show I have produced with CCT. After 15 years of directing, hundreds of kids, 29 productions with CCT, and 24 very hot Julys spent in the Hall, it’s time for me to have a real summer vacation. I would like to thank the countless kids, parents, and community members who have helped support the Chebeague Children’s Theatre over the past 15 years that I have served as the Artistic Director.

This group of actors is incredibly special to me, and as you can see from their bios the majority of them have worked with me for many years. When I think back to Into the Woods, or Music Man it is amazing to see how far they have come as actors. I have watched them evolve from insecure elementary school students to high school students ready to take on the world. I am so proud of each and every one of them, and it has been such a privilege for me to get to be part of their journey. The young adults you will see tonight are a remarkable group and the true definition of an ensemble. They work incredibly well together and are so supportive of each other; there is a level of trust among their group that you will see on stage,; they are not afraid to take risks, because they know the others will catch them if they fall. Without question, working with this group has been the highlight of my theatre career to date.

To the Troupe: Thank you for lots of laughs, impromptu dance parties, hundreds of hours of rehearsal, your enthusiasm, energy, dedication, and drive. The Charlie Hounds, Xtream Stunts, spontaneous sing alongs, AVPM, and tap dancing have created countless memories. While the curtain is falling on this act of your lives, I know there will be many more opening nights to come for you, and although I am “retiring” from CCT, I hope you know I am not disappearing and will continue to be your biggest fan. I know we will see great things from all of you, and I can’t wait to see where you go from here. All I ask is that you remember me in your acceptance speeches when you win your Tony Awards 😉

To the Chebeague Island Community: I would also like to thank all of you who have been so wonderful and supportive of all of us through the years. From donating costumes and props, acting in shows, building and painting sets, writing scripts, putting up tarps to keep the rain off the kids, playing the piano, taking photos, providing rehearsal and performance space at the hall, doing hair and makeup, sewing costumes, helping to learn lines, putting up with our very loud music and tap dancing, stopping the actors on the road or at the store to tell them they did a great job, and most importantly for being an incredible audience and allowing generations of young people to feel what it’s like to be a star. You may be able to say “you saw them when” about some of these kids in the future… I would bet on them.

Thank you all and enjoy the show.

Rachel Damon

Artistic Director