Each year, before the Spring Musical, I visit our students backstage to wish them well. This year, as I stood among the cast and crew of Anastasia following their circle prayer, I found myself simply looking around.
Nearly one hundred students filled the room, actors, musicians, and technicians, each with a vital role to play. Some would take center stage, others would never step into the spotlight. Yet in that moment, it was clear that each of them had found, or was finding, their unique voice and purpose through the arts.
The success of a production like Anastasia is certainly seen in the magnificent performance on stage. But its true triumph lies in something deeper, in students discovering their voice not simply as something spoken, but as a growing sense of confidence, belief, and purpose.
This voice is not something found in a single moment. It is already within each student, patiently formed and strengthened in community. It may not always make a sound, yet it becomes something you come to believe in, something that quietly, but powerfully, shapes who you are becoming. It was a privilege to witness that unfolding as I stood in the middle of that room.
I want to extend my sincere congratulations to Robert Calimlim, along with Erin Moore, Tim Davis, Griffin Harmon, Chiara Corey, and Christina Cierek for their exceptional leadership, dedication, and care in bringing Anastasia to life.
Most of all, I am deeply proud of our students, not only for what they accomplished on stage, but for who they are becoming through this shared endeavor. In ways both seen and unseen, they gave of themselves fully, supported one another, and brought something meaningful to life together. That is a source of immense pride for our entire community. Congratulations to the cast, crew, and pit orchestra of Anastasia!
Mr. Matthew Keough
President, Christian Brothers Academy
