Notes from the Director
Walking into a job and being asked how to direct a musical outright is a terrifying question. In my first conversations with the administration at Washington-Nile Local Schools, they impressed upon me the scope of the musical heritage at Portsmouth West. For several decades, Portsmouth West has been a flagship program for production quality, integrity, musicality, and character.
What a terrifying, and humbling prospect it is to take over a program with such a rich culture and continue the tradition of excellence that has long lived on the West side. This production is a testament to the legacy that came before us and the incredible students and community that carry it forward.
First and foremost, thank you to the administration and Board of Education of Portsmouth West. None of this would be possible without your unwavering support. Special thanks to our guidance counselors, custodial staff, engineering department, and administration (Mr. Chris Rapp, Superintendent, Mr. Jason Kegley, High School Principal, Mr. Andrew Ralstin, Middle School Principal, and Mr. Matt Ketter, Middle and High School Assistant Principal.) Finding an administration that truly supports the arts is rare. This team has shown up, time and time again, for every concert and performance. Your presence, encouragement, and belief in this program mean more than words can express. Portsmouth West is incredibly fortunate to have such a dedicated and supportive leadership team. My coworkers are the best there are, and it can't be stated enough how good the team at Portsmouth West is. Special thanks for Mr. Aaron Blevins for his dedication to musical excellence in our program.
To our parents and families, thank you will never be enough. Not once during the course of this production has a need gone unmet. You have fed our students, built sets, organized logistics, provided transportation, and given countless hours of your time and energy. Your support behind the scenes makes everything on stage possible. This production stands as much on your shoulders as it does on the talents of our students.
To this remarkable cast, crew, and pit; your dedication, resilience, and passion have brought this story to life. You have spent long hours rehearsing, problem-solving, and growing not only as performers but as individuals. The story of Hadestown is one of perseverance, hope, and the power of choice, and you have embodied those themes every step of the way.
Thank you to our students and community members who have stepped up as choreographers, pit musicians, and designers and who have poured their creativity and expertise into this show. From lighting and sound to costumes and set construction, your work has transformed this stage into another world.
To our community members, sponsors, and supporters, thank you for continuing to invest in the arts at Portsmouth West. Your encouragement helps sustain a program that impacts students in meaningful and lasting ways.
Lastly, thank you to everyone who came before us and built the foundation of excellence that we are so proud to continue. It is an honor to carry on this tradition.
Welcome to Hadestown: Teen Edition.
