PRODUCER’S NOTE

Last March when our production of Newsies got shut down three days before opening, we had no idea what a long haul lay ahead. We were working on ways to get that production up and running for an audience. We didn’t expect that show to never happen, and we certainly didn’t think it would have an affect on that next fall’s production. And yet, as with all things in 2020, plans did not go as expected. Once we realized that we could not do a conventional play, we knew we had to come up with something unconventional.

Recognizing the significance of this being Gonzaga’s 200th year of exisistence, understanding the limitations presented by the pandemic, but wanting to give the kids something to create, we came up with Words from Eye Street. Most of the credit has to go to Sarah Frances Williams, who, in her first year as director, has already had to overcome so many obstacles, and she has done so in a way that focuses on the kids, all while keeping them safe, healthy, and energized. And a huge shout out also to our Tech Director Jonathan Spencer, who has gone above and beyond handling all of the tech for this show, which has included far more than for a normal fall play. But of course it is the kids who make this happen, and they are the reason we are here. They have taken words from the past two centuries, from major historical figures to momentous feats of literature, and transformed those words into their own interpretations, their own visions, and their own moments. We could not be more proud of them and all they have accomplished. Everyone has played a role different from what they thought it would be, but they have welcomed the challenge and are now ready to present the fruits of their labors to you. So please sit back in the comfort of your home, grab a snack from the fridge and enjoy our Words from Eye Street.

Paul Buckley ‘86 and Meghan Goldsmith Producers, Words from Eye Street

DIRECTOR’S NOTE

In 2020, the world has been flipped around. At the beginning, we could be connected to strangers and friends in the theatre through laughter, tears, joy and the magic of theatre. Now we are primarily connected through screens, chats, and Zoom backgrounds.

Together, the Gonzaga Dramatic Association has worked to bring back the magic of theatre, but in a new way. We are leaning into the technological world in which we currently find ourselves. As directors, actors, technical crew and creators, the students have worked together to bring to life famous monologues and speeches on your screens. They have each been challenged to create their own world with these well known words. The students perform, set up the stage, edit and complete produce on their own. As the director, I have guided the students to lean into their instincts and encouraged their creative freedom.

More than ever, the arts are needed. We all rely on them each day, whether we are watching our favorite Netflix show, listening to calming music, hearing a podcast the background, or reading a book to take us to a new world -- the arts are surrounding us now more than ever. We are bringing you these beautiful words, to challenge and to inspire you, to bring joy, sadness, laughter and thought.

I congratulate each of thse incredible students for their hard work, dedication, and creative minds. You have each been presented with a unique challenge and have navigated it with grace and determination. For that, I am honored to have worked with each of you.

To our viewers -- I hope you enjoy our

Words from Eye Street

.

Sarah Frances Williams Director, Words from Eye Street