As the no-good pandemic of COVID-19 cast its ugly shadow, a group of 130 middle school and high school students were preparing for their performance of the Idaho Falls School District No. 91 Musical’s 39th Annual Production. Under the amazing direction of Sue Parrette, the students were incredibly excited to show the world what they could do on stage and in the orchestra pit.
Sadly, the day before Opening Night, the production staff, cast, orchestra members and crew were told the production of Beauty and the Beast was postponed indefinitely. Many of the show’s leads were seniors and so many more of the cast were too. It was mostly for them that I wept as we listened to Superintendent Boland explain the reasons for “postponing” the performances. It was utterly heartbreaking. The feeling of a theater family was incredibly strong that day, but the feeling of loss was greater, including the loss of a chance to say goodbye to each other. Below is a letter for our seniors:
Dear Theater-Loving Seniors (and all seniors for that matter),
Over the last 7 years, I have had the pleasure of working with many of you through the various Arts programs in town. Some of you I have known from the start of my involvement with the District #91 Musical; or through the various activities of the Idaho Falls Youth Arts Centre; or Bonneville High School Theater.
One thing I can say about you as a class, is this: You are amazingly strong and beautiful people. It is not fair what you are going through and what you have lost these last few months. My heart aches for you. I can only imagine what it is like going through this pandemic at this stage of your life.
I know you will get through this. I know you are strong enough to make it through to the other side and be “better for it,” but not for one minute do I want to take away the feeling of loss from you. So many spring recitals, sports, ceremonies, and performances were cancelled due to this crazy pandemic.
You deserve to show your talents to the world. The world deserves to see your talents and your tenacity. I am honored and privileged to have stood in awe of your work on and off the stage. On the stage, each of you gave it your all every time. Off the stage, you were kind, dedicated and worked to include everyone you could. I commend you and hope to live up to the standard you each have set.
You were all born at a time the world was mourning a tragic event -- becoming the light to so many after a dark time. And now you have graduated at a time the world is mourning again. I truly believe you will rise up and continue to be the light for so many. Do not let anyone dull your sparkle.
As hard as it is to let go of this loss, I hope and pray that it will strengthen each of you even more to shine brighter and fight harder. I continue to stand in awe of you. I hope and pray celebrations of your successes will still happen, and I hope and pray I will be able to celebrate with you.
Stay strong, Class of 2020.You have my utmost respect, love and adoration.
Always dance when you get the chance,
Erin Nazario
Click here to continue reading the June issue of Idaho Falls Magazine.