Dedication

        Every year our spring performance is dedicated to a member of the Madrid-Waddington family who has been instrumental in the program's continued success. Dan Rose worked to ensure the success of these performances throughout his high school career as a leader back stage, and as an irreplaceable friend to everyone. Although Dan's work was strictly on the "tech" side of things, he did finally make a cameo appearance on stage his senior year as a body double.

    Musical theatre is truly a celebration of life, and Dan Rose was most certainly a lover of life. Through song, dance, tears, laughter, lights, and visual art we embark upon a journey through a fantastical world. For eight weeks every year I am blessed with the opportunity to guide an ensemble of our finest students through that world. Over a decade ago a group of exuberant high school students labored feverishly to create the 1992 production of The Mystery of Edwin Drood. Today, the E-Z Riser (our mechanical ladder for getting to high elevations) still bears the following signature: "The Rose Nest '92". It is a reminder of the numerous hours Danny had spent aloft getting to all of those hard to reach places.

    Although Dan's life ended too soon, his impact on the world around him will live on forever. I know the path my life has taken would certainly be very different had I not had the good fortune of growing up with Dan. Danny always considered my continuation of this program to be the "coolest" thing I could be doing. It is this kind of encouragement from a close friend that keeps you going through the long days and nights of making the show happen. In short, tonight's show would not exist without Dan's influence upon me, and so this group of exuberant high school students is feeling Dan's touch as well.

    Damn Yankees brings the world of sports into the world of musical theatre. Danny loved both, and so I can think on no other show he would enjoy more! I miss my friend every day, but I find solace in being able to continue sharing life's wonderful moments with him. Enjoy this one Dan!

                    Sincerely,

                                 Jeff Stein