An Unforgettable Evening

Over the past few weeks, I have had the incredible pleasure of working with some of my dearest and most talented friends on the enormous undertaking of mounting a concert version of the musical Ragtime in three - that's right three - rehearsals. Anytime you mount any production, you spend days saying "If only I had ONE more week of rehearsal, I could make this really great!". Of course with only three rehearsals, I was certainly thinking this...That is up until I heard the beautiful first notes of the perfect Ragtime score last night. As each actor stepped forward with confidence and grace to introduce their character to the audience, all I could think was, "Boy - I have incredibly talented friends"; and Richmond has an unbelievable array of talent. I am so grateful for every artist on stage last night - All of whom donated their time to help make Stage 1 a reality. To help us be able to bring to Richmond the work we are so excited about. To watch these artists who I have admired since I was 10 years old - which is not all that long ago - pour their hearts and souls onto that stage must have been one of the most thrilling theatrical experience of my life.

Additionally, I am incredibly grateful for every single person who attended last night's performance. The audience has the power to become another character in each and every production, and last night was no exception. From where I was sitting, each and every audience member was directly connected to the characters on stage - Laughing, crying and coming along for the stunning journey that is Ragtime. This is a testament to the unbelievable talent of these actors and musicians, as well as the near-perfect words and music of Stephen Flaherty, Lynn Ahrens, Terrence McNally and, of course, E.L. Doctorow. Thank you all for your amazing support as Stage 1 enters the Richmond theatre scene.



We hope that you will continue to join us for our 08/09 Inaugural Season. Trust me, you won't want to miss a moment.

See you at Stage 1.

Chase K.