Saying Goodbye: Hudson Music Company - Oklahoma

What an amazing last night! After 5 months of practice and 17 shows, I am really proud of myself. After a long break from performing full length shows, I still can`t believe I made it (lol). I don`t think people realise how much dedication and hard work go into building a production. The long practices, the hours of travelling and the ups and downs that real life can bring while trying to accomplish your goal. I feel exuberant and sad at the same time. I am so proud to have been part of such an exemplary team of talented performers and I am going to miss ever single one of the cast. It`s rare to be surrounded by so many individuals and not have any animosity towards some but not so in this case. Everyone was professional, hard working and most of all, caring, loving and understanding. What a team!!!

From a professional point of view, the vocal and acting performances by Jordan Marchand (Curly) and Stefania Vetere (Laurie) blew me away. They were perfect for the roles. Mike Melino (Will Parker) was funny, witty and proved that he is an all around talented singer, performer and outstanding entertainer. Nathaniel Villeneuva was just hilarious. His interpretation of Ali Hakim brought an abundance of laughter to every show, it would not have been the same without him. Simon Cote (Jud Fry) played an intricate role as the bad guy. He played the deep and scary character with conviction leveling the humor and installing a presence of true acting ability. Gail Marchand, delivered a heartfelt and funny interpretation of Aunt Eller proving again why she is made to be on a stage. Dominique Thornhill (Ado Annie), in her first time lead role, was able to entice the audience with humor and brought a diversity to the show with her upbeat personality. With his charm, humor and all around great personality, John Wilson`s (Andrew Carnes) presence was noticed every time he stepped on stage. Shannon Marchand (Gertie) who`s laugh will never be forgotten (lol), was a delight to watch and brought a plus to the show with her engaging personality and beauty. Justin Muriz, Dan Wheeler and Marc Andre Poulin (ensemble) all brought a diversity to the show that proved that minor roles can have a huge impact on the overall greatness of the show. The production would not have been the same without the ladies from ``Out of my Dreams``, Jen Baltuonis, Bertha Bisanti, Marie Francis, Jean Kelly and Laurie Tomita, their vocal abilities are outstanding and brought the level of the ensemble to the best it could be. Kim and Robyn Beaver, with their beauty and grace added to the show with not only their vocal talent but with their dance abilities (thank you for making my choreography the best it could be). A big hand of applause to Katherine Potter and Bella Gavanski, whom are only 12 years old, they proved that talent comes in every age. A round of applause to their parents as well. I can`t think of anything better than the art world to keep children growing, motivated and disciplined (as well as out of trouble-lol). All in all, the whole cast brought a part of themselves and made the production a huge success. Cheers to all of us!!!

From a personal point of view, the memories I have from doing this show will stay with me forever. The moments of laughter, silliness and fun made the whole experience worth it. A big thanks to the directors Karen Cromar and Glen Bowser for working so hard at making this production the best it could be. To Sheila, the musical director who was there every step of the way to encourage and help bring out the best vocal performances and to Mike Melino for assisting in the process. To Gail Marchand for the fantastic costumes (I swear I will never wear another bonnet again - lol). To the ballerina dancers (Alannagh Maciw and Laura Delgesso) whom put their hearts and soul into their performances and to Terry Girouard and Helene Robitaille (ballet) for their choreography. To Anika Nincas, whom is a fantastic person for putting up with us as stage manager and to John Jacques who was always there to lend a helping hand. To Andre Marchand and the whole crew behind the scenes, you are all wonderful, the show could not have happened without you. To all the people that came to see the show, thank you. You not only helped a great cause, you gave us a reason to shine.

I can leave this experience with a great sense of accomplishment and I hope some long standing relationships. In the end, the show is one part but the best part is the people that you are surrounded by. Thank you for making this a great ride and I will miss you all. To the next time we meet!!!