Director’s
Welcome
to EXPERIMENTS
IN COMEDY & TRAGEDY: ALMOST, MAINE!
Theatre is an art based in the structures of reality. This show in particular covers a particularly bittersweet element of real life— love. John Cariani captures all sides of love and relationships in this romantic dramedy. These characters are steeped very deeply in reality and authenticity, with maybe a hint of magic. As we go through this show, we grow as people learning about the complexities of love. We hope you find some comfort in these characters and their relationships.
This show has been a labor of love and such a pleasure to work on. We have dreamed of doing this play since our sophomore year, so we are extremely grateful to have the opportunity to put it on. We would like to thank our cast and tech crew who worked extremely hard to put on this show.
Thank you for visiting Almost, Maine, and enjoy the show!
Inika Mukherjee and Vedanth Ramachandran, Co-Directors
What is EXPERIMENTS IN COMEDY & TRAGEDY?
EXPERIMENTS IN COMEDY & TRAGEDY is a long-standing tradition with Valley Christian Theatre. Past productions have included both published and original scripts, and even a fully-produced and filmed show during the pandemic. A completely student-produced, designed, and directed show, EXPERIMENTS gives our most senior students the opportunity to fully experience what it is like to plan an entire production, top to bottom, beginning to end. From researching possible shows, to completing all of the design elements and building the show, to holding auditions and directing their peers, EXPERIMENTS allows these exemplary students to truly exercise leadership and employ the skills they have gained as students of Valley Christian Theatre.
May 1-3 | 7:00pm
WRITTEN BY JOHN
CARIANI
PRESENTED BY THEATRE IV HONORS AND TECHNICAL THEATRE III HONORS
SCENIC DESIGN/CHARGE ARTIST YSABELLA De SOTO
STAGE MANAGER ANVI GOEL
MASTER CARPENTER/SOUND DESIGN JADE QUIBELAN
PROPS/MASTER ELECTRICIAN AYUSH ROY
TECHNICAL DIRECTOR/LIGHTING DESIGN HANNAH BALOG
COSTUME, HAIR, & MAKEUP DESIGN CARLEE RAMOS & ISABELLA NGUYEN
PRODUCTION & HOUSE MANAGERS VALERIE TSAI & LONNI ADAMS
SET CONSTRUCTION & SCENIC PAINTING TECHNICAL THEATRE III (H)
DIRECTED BY
INIKA MUKHERJEE & VEDANTH RAMACHANDRAN
ALMOST, MAINE was developed by The Cape Cod Theatre Project. Professional Premiere Production: Portland Stage Company, Anita Stewart, Artistic Director, Tami Ramaker, Managing Director. Originally produced in New York by Jack Thomas/Bulldog Theatrical and Bruce Payne.
SETTING
Almost, Maine. A small, fictional town in Northern Maine, lit up by the magic of the Aurora Borealis.
There will be one ten-minute intermission.
(In Order of Appearance)
A Note to Our Patrons
Here at Valley Christian Theatre (VCT), we believe it is vital for our students to know they can be unapologetically Christian in the Arts; their artistic gifts are God-given, after all. Further, it is equally important to us that our students leave our program well-prepared to face a non-Christian world as Christians in the Arts. This includes learning to use their own Christian perspective to address worldly themes and the fallen nature of humanity, much like they do in their other academic studies. Often, it is when we confront these very themes that we turn towards Christ, humbling ourselves as we examine our own convictions, and seek wisdom; this is the gritty work that allows us to strengthen our faith (James 1:5-7).
Every VCT production, K-12, goes through a vetting process with several sets of theatrically experienced eyes on scripts before they are decided upon. We examine the scripts closely and decide as a team whether a show is a good choice for the Valley Christian Schools (VCS) stage. It is an extensive and time-consuming process, and one we do not take lightly. Scripture tells us that we are all sinners (no matter how minimal or egregious we humans might deem the sin) and are saved only by grace (Romans 3:23-24). Invariably, we come across characters and situations that challenge our very human (and Christian) sensibilities. Please keep in mind that VCS does not condone these situations, characters, or lifestyles; rather, what you see on stage is a reflection of reality in our modern world and culture. It is in these moments that we pause, humble ourselves, and begin to look for clues of justice and redemption within the story. While not always overt, they nearly always exist.
As you enjoy tonight’s performance, if at any moment you find yourself triggered, we encourage you to pause, reflect, seek wisdom, and look for justice and redemption within this story. If you have questions, strong thoughts, or feelings you wish to express, please, reach out to us—we want to engage in a healthy, respectful, and godly dialogue with you. It is our true desire to give y/our students artistic opportunities that allow the light of Christ to shine through them so that they may ultimately glorify God through their art “at home and in their communities”—to “Do it heartily unto the Lord” (VCS’ Mission Statement). We strive to ensure that the Valley Christian Theatre program embodies the VCS mission in all that we do.
Myra Kaelin (’94), K-12 Director of Theatre Arts
Justin McPherson (’07), K-12 Director of Technical Theatre
Sophia McCann (’15), Junior High Theatre Director
SUMMER THEATRE CAMP
JUNE 16-27, 2025
for students entering 3 rd -5 th grade
Summer Theatre 2025: LEAP DAY
Dates
June 16-27 (Closed June 19) (Monday-Friday)
Time 9am-12pm
Cost $495
Grades
Entering Grades 3-5 (Co-Ed)
Location Valley Christian Schools 100 Skyway Drive San Jose, CA 95111
Instructor Mrs. Myra Kaelin
Inspired by the short story “The Days of the Week” by Hans Christian Andersen, LEAP DAY finds the Days of the Week have a day off and decide to celebrate with a huge party at the House of Father Time. However, this Leap Day, nothing goes as planned. Tuesday and Friday’s friendship is definitely not what it used to be, and the Days feel overworked, demanding an eighth day be added to the week. How will they find a resolution that values EVERYONE for who they are?
Join us for a two-week, half-day camp for students entering grades 3-5. These young actors will focus on learning lines, basic stage directions, introductory vocals, choreography, and stage movement, culminating with a performance of LEAP DAY on June 27 at 12pm. This year’s camp is not to be missed, and will give budding thespians great building blocks for their future at VCT.
No camp on Thursday, June 19, in observance of Juneteenth.
Camp Showcase June 27 at 12pm
Note: Camp fee includes a camp t-shirt. Students are responsible for bringing their own snack. If you have questions, or if all spots are full when you go to register, please contact Rebekah Risk, rrisk@vcs.net, to be placed on a waitlist.
SUMMER THEATRE CAMP
JUNE 10-27, 2025
for students entering 6 th -12 th grade
Summer Theatre 2025: Aladdin Jr.
Dates June 10-27 (Closed June 19) (Monday-Friday)
Time 9am-3pm
Cost $795
Grades
Entering Grades 6-12 (Co-Ed)
Location Valley Christian Schools 100 Skyway Drive San Jose, CA 95111
Instructor Mrs. Myra Kaelin
Aladdin and his three friends, Babkak, Omar, and Kassim, are down on their luck, until Aladdin discovers a magic lamp and the Genie who has the power to grant three wishes. Wanting to earn the respect of the princess, Jasmine, Aladdin embarks on an adventure that will test his will and his moral character. A “diamond in the rough,” Aladdin learns that his true worth lies deep within.
Join us for a three-week, full-day camp for students entering grades 6-12. Students will spend their days rehearsing vocals, choreography, and staging leading up to performances on June 26-27. Every student is guaranteed a role in the show! Join us for a summer filled with creativity, growth, and the magic of ALADDIN JR!
No camp on Thursday, June 19, in observance of Juneteenth.
Performances on June 26-27 at 6pm. Camp hours may be adjusted on these two days to accommodate the performances.
Note: Camp fee includes a camp t-shirt. Students must bring snacks and a lunch from home. If you have questions, or if all spots are full when you go to register, please contact Rebekah Risk, rrisk@vcs.net, to be placed on a waitlist.
SUMMER DANCE CAMP
Vivid 2 - The Dance Team Experience
Dates
June 9-20 (Closed June 19) (Monday-Friday)
Time 1pm-4pm
Cost $400
Grades
Entering Grades 1-8 (Co-Ed)
Location
High School Dance Studio 100 Skyway Drive San Jose, CA 95111
Coaches
Mrs. Colette Evans
Miss Megan Stagi
Vivid Dance Team JUNE 9-20, 2025 for students entering 1 st -8 th grade
Sponsored and facilitated by the members of Valley Christian’s Vivid Dance Team, Vivid 2 introduces young dancers to the fast-paced and exciting world of competitive dance teams! Participants will learn cutting-edge routines, develop team spirit, and have a fantastic time while enhancing their performance skills and dance techniques. The camp will culminate in a dynamic performance showcasing the combinations and techniques learned over the two weeks. Join us and be a part of our nationally-ranked team! Let’s dance!
There will be no camp on Thursday, June 19, in observance of Juneteenth.
The camp performance takes place Friday, June 20 at 3pm in the VCHS Theatre.
Note: The fee includes a dance team shirt, daily nutritious snacks, and performance expenses. Students will need to provide jazz shoes. Fees will go directly to support Vivid: Valley Christian’s award-winning competitive dance team. If you have any questions, please contact Colette Evans, cevans@vcs.net
AFFIRMING THE ARTS Spring 2025
Jan 18..................................... West Coast Elite Dance Competition - HS Dance
Mar 6-8.................................... 13-15 Rock of Ages: Teen Edition - HS Theatre
Mar 19...................................... Faith, Hope, and Love - JH/HS Choirs
Mar 28..................................... Serenade to Spring - JH/HS Strings
Apr 3....................................... Percussion Extravaganza - JH Drums/HS Percussion
Apr 3-5...................................
Apr
Apr 24-26...............................
May 1-3................................... Experiments in Comedy & Tragedy - HS Theatre
May 5-16................................. Art Show - EL Art
May 7-14.................................
May 13.....................................
May 16-17................................
May 19.....................................
May 20....................................
May 22-24..............................
WARRIOR FUND
Tuition funds operations. Philanthropy fuels vision. Every gift makes a difference, so please consider donating to the Warrior Fund today.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Spring 2026
Join us for our annual Quest Ball dinner and auction. Enjoy a night to honor and celebrate the Warrior legacy, raise essential funds, and make a difference for students through financial assistance. vcs.net/questball
May 2026
We look forward to welcoming the VCS community for a round of golf and a day of fellowship at the annual Golf Classic. vcs.net/golfclassic
Wherever you may be, we’re always here to support our amazing alumni like you.
As you continue to make a positive difference in communities around the world, we want to stay connected! We currently have twenty-nine ambassadors all over the country that have connected with fellow alums near them. This past year we have visited eleven cities across the US and look forward to hosting an alumni dinner near you soon. Simply scan the QR code and fill out our “Alumni Connect Form” to stay updated on news and events. Let us know about where you’ve been, where you’re headed and stay connected with us today!
Giving PLANNED
The Shechem Oak Society empowers our community to make an extraordinary impact on future generations. The society comprises all who generously bequeath legacy gifts to Valley Christian Schools.
God assured Abraham of keeping His promise to grant the land to Abraham’s descendants. Shechem holds a significant place in this narrative—it’s where Jacob excavated a well and erected an altar, where Joseph’s family laid his remains to rest, where Joshua delivered his parting words in service to the Lord, and where Jesus revealed Himself as the Messiah to the Samaritan woman at the well (Genesis 12:6, 33:18, Joshua 24:26, John 4:12). Shechem stands as a powerful symbol of God’s faithfulness across generations. We fervently pray that VCS, like Shechem, will serve as a reminder of God’s unwavering faithfulness in Silicon Valley and worldwide.
At a time when many American educational institutions are straying from biblical values, you can ensure that Valley Christian Schools continues its Quest for Excellence™ for future generations. Join us in providing high-quality Christ-centered education to our children and grandchildren by including VCS in your will.
VCS partners with Thompson & Associates to offer confidential and complimentary estate planning consultations to our board members, administrators, faculty, staff, and community. Join my wife, Kris, myself, and others in discovering the most tax-efficient means of transferring your estate to benefit your family and your passions.
As a trusted member of our VCS community, please accept our gift to you and arrange your estate planning consultation with Darren Penny of Thompson & Associates. You may email advancement@vcs.net or call my office at 408-513-2503. If you have already included VCS in your planned giving, kindly inform us so we may include you in our Shechem Oak Society.
Looking forward,
Clifford E. Daugherty, Ed.D. President
MISSION STATEMENT
Valley Christian Schools’ mission is to provide a nurturing environment o ering quality education supported by a strong foundation of Christian values in partnership with parents, equipping students to become leaders to serve God, to serve their families, and to positively impact their communities and the world.
VISION STATEMENT
A world where every student pursues their personal Quest for Excellence™
FOUNDING STATEMENT
Valley Christian Schools supports the homes and churches of students in providing an education that is grounded in the Judeo-Christian values of the Bible, as reflected in the life and teaching of Jesus Christ. Valley Christian Schools is committed to a Quest for Excellence™ in all of its educational programs, and provides a comprehensive kindergarten through twelfth grade curriculum with a rigorous college preparatory program. Firmly founded on Christian values, Valley Christian Schools challenges youth to aspire toward lives of character, service, and influence while pursuing their individual Quests for Excellence
