DIRECTOR'S NOTE

When I was 26 I saw my first Too Much Light Makes the Baby Go Blind performance and I was inspired by the interactivity, fast pace, and pseudo-improvisation that makes Too Much Light such a special niche theater experience. While I love all types of theatre I am especially drawn to modern theatre when it touches on current events, tells stories of new voices, and pushes the boundaries that we expect in a traditional play or musical. I believe it’s shows like this that get newcomers to theatre to fall in love with performative art, comedy, and improvisation. When I saw this performed at the Illinois High School Theater Festival 2 years ago, I knew I just had to bring it to the Leyden stage.

Too Much Light has been so much fun to put together and such a rewarding experience watching these students grow. Spanning Freshman to Seniors from a variety of theatre backgrounds our Too Much Light troupe has gone from unsure and shy to the boisterous improv-y delight you will see tonight. As the show evolved during rehearsals and they started to feel comfortable with what they were performing, the actors started playing with their characters, trying out new ways to perform their bits and finding their voices. Who was I to squelch their individuality? I have encouraged them to be their biggest and best selves up there each night, to embrace the variations, and most of all to have fun. I hope you have as much fun tonight as we had while we were putting this all together.

Finally, I would be remiss if I didn’t take a moment to praise and thank my co-director MarissaRamirez Alvarez Escarpital. Mari has devoted the majority of her time here in Leyden Theatre learning all aspects of a production, which makes her an uber valuable member of any thespian team. Mari and I worked together to choose the plays you’ll see here tonight and to cast and develop the show. It’s been a pleasure working with and learning from her. Her presence in the theatre will be missed immensely next year as she leaves some big shoes to fill. I know that wherever life takes her she’ll find the spot and make sure she’s standing in the light. Any theatre should be so lucky to have a marvel like Mari in their company. 

So, sit back but don’t relax too much because the show is about to begin and well…you’ll see ;)

Adrianne Nix