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Experiments in Comedy & Tragedy: 8 Minutes Left

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8MINUTES LEFT

hat if you only had… by E.B. LEE

APRIL30, MAY 1, MAY2|6PM

DIRECTORS’ NOTE

Welcome to Experiments in Comedy & Tragedy: 8 Minutes Left!

What would you do if you only had eight minutes left on Earth? Who would you talk to? What would you say? Join us on a tour around the soon-to-begone world and spend the last eight minutes with people from all walks of life. Through the lens of the observer, we see our characters deal with grief, anxiety, love, and reconciliation. In these final fleeting moments, we learn to appreciate the preciousness of life and relationships.

We are so grateful for the opportunity to work with such a wonderful cast and crew. This process has brought us closer together as a community and allowed us to showcase what makes it shine. It has been a gift to direct this show, and we hope that it provides you with the same sense of appreciation and connection that it has given us. Thank you for being here, for supporting Theatre Arts, but most especially, for supporting all of us on this production.

8MINUTESLEFt

April 30-May 2 | 6pm

STAGE MANAGER JACOB THOMAS

BACKSTAGE MANAGER

TAMARA ADKINSON

LEAD CARPENTERS

COLIN WHITE & ANGEL LOPEZ

SOUND DESIGN

VARAN VERMA

LIGHTING DESIGN

ASSISTANT STAGE MANAGER EMMA HANNA

SCENIC DESIGN NICOLLE WAGNER

SCENIC PAINTERS NICOLLE WAGNER & SOPHIA MORAIS

SOUND ENGINEER

SOPHIA MORAIS

AUSTIN TAYLOR & MEGHA ARORA

CO-PRODUCTION MANAGERS & HOUSE MANAGERS

JACK GUNTER* & ELIJAH WILLSON

COSTUMES, HAIR, & MAKEUP JOHAN GONZALEZ

CO-TECHNICAL DIRECTORS ANGEL LOPEZ & AUSTIN TAYLOR PROPERTIES

TAMARA ADKINSON & COLIN WHITE

CO-DIRECTORS

MALIA LIU* & TALIA SANTIZO*

SETTING

The last moments of the fictional working class town of Charlesville, New Jersey.

There will be a 10-minute intermission

CAST

(in order of appearance)

Sandra / Mika............................................................................................................Kara Day

Bernard / Simon.............................................................................................Ayden Babish

Cary / Paterson...............................................................................................Junior Lomeli

Paula / Raven / Lydia / Woman............................................................Aashna Mahato

Trevor / Julius...............................................................................Logan Abreau Campen

Ursula / Nan / Viola / Amalia..................................................................Ginger Kaelin*

Booker / Derek / Ravi........................................................................Joshua Prabhakar*

Elijah / Man...........................................................................................................Caleb Ortiz

*Conservatory Honors Fellow

VALLEY CHRISTIAN THEATRE STATEMENT

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 think and live like followers of Jesus in a complex world. 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. 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 the reality of 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. And sometimes, bringing a smile to your face or a moment of joy to your heart is the redemptive moment (Isaiah 61:3).

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. 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 your 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.” 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

VCS Production Committee

Brian Clemons (’87), President

Justin McPherson (’07), K-12 Director of Technical Theatre

Troy Gunter, VP/Director of K-12 Conservatory of the Arts

Dr. Steve Dang (’02), Senior Vice President, Chief Ministry Officer, & Director of Alumni

Dr. Jennifer Silva (’94), High School Principal

Sophia McCann (’15), Junior High Drama Teacher and Junior High Leader

Anne (Bagley ’94) Delke, Department Head, High School Bible Department

Dr. Niccole Carner, High School AP English Teacher

SUMMER THEATRE CAMP

Dates June 8-18 (Monday-Friday)

Time 9am-12pm

Cost

$495

Grades

Entering Grades 3-5 (Co-Ed)

Location

Skyway Theatre 100 Skyway Drive San Jose, CA 95111

Camp registration closes Monday, May 11. for students entering 3rd-5th grade JUNE 8-18, 2026

Instructor

Miss Sophia McCann (’15) Mr. Justin McPherson (’07)

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 fun and energetic “mini-show” performance on June 18 at 12pm. This year’s camp is not to be missed and will give budding thespians great building blocks for their future at VCT.

Mandatory Camp Showcase June 18 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 Cristina Zepeda, czepeda@vcs.net, to be placed on a waitlist.

SUMMER THEATRE CAMP JUNE 8-26, 2026

for students entering 6th-12th grade

Summer Theatre 2026: Disney’s FROZEN JR.

Dates June 8-26 (Closed June 19) (Monday-Friday)

Time 9am-3pm

Cost $795

Grades

Entering Grades 6-12 (Co-Ed)

Location Skyway Theatre 100 Skyway Drive San Jose, CA 95111

Instructor

Miss Sophia McCann (’15)

Mr. Justin McPherson (’07)

Disney’s enchanting modern classic comes to life in Frozen JR. this summer at VCT! Based on the hit Broadway musical, the show brings Elsa, Anna, and the magical land of Arendelle to the stage with beloved songs and exciting new moments written for Broadway. Students will explore a heartfelt story of courage, acceptance, and sisterhood as Anna and Elsa discover their inner strength. Filled with magic, adventure, humor, and unforgettable characters, Frozen JR. promises a fun, inspiring, and confidence-building summer experience.

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 25-26. Every student is guaranteed a role in the show! Join us for a summer filled with creativity, growth, and the magic of Frozen JR!

No camp on Friday, June 19, in observance of Juneteenth.

Mandatory Performances on June 25-26 at 6pm. Camp hours will be adjusted on these two days to accommodate the performances.

Note: Camp fee includes a camp t-shirt. Students are responsible for bringing their own snack and lunch. If you have questions, or if all spots are full when you go to register, please contact Cristina Zepeda, czepeda@vcs.net, to be placed on a waitlist.

Camp registration closes Monday, May 11.

SUMMER ART CAMP S JUNE 8-12, 2026

Friends • Creativity • Memories

Dates June 8-12 (Monday-Friday)

Times

Grades 1-2: 9am-12pm Grades 3-5: 1pm-4pm

Cost $300 Grades

Entering Grades 1-2 and Entering Grades 3-5 (Co-Ed)

Location

Skyway Conservatory 100 Skyway Dr San Jose, CA 95111

Instructor

Mrs. Jill Carlson

Art Camp emphasizes creativity as an integral part of the art process, regardless of a student’s level of experience. By teaching fundamental skills and concepts, the instructor encourages students to see art as a means of personal expression. The Valley Christian Elementary School Art Camp allows children to immerse themselves in an array of intensive art studio experiences. Children will be up to their elbows in fun as they dabble in a kaleidoscope of exciting art!

Note: Children should plan to wear clothing that can get messy and stained. Pack a snack and drink for a break outside.

SUMMER DANCE CAMP

JUNE 8-18, 2026 for students entering 1st-8th grade

Vivid 2 - The Dance Team Experience

Dates June 8-18 (Monday-Friday)

Time 1pm-4pm

Cost $475 Grades

Entering Grades 1-8 (Co-Ed)

Location Skyway Theatre

100 Skyway Drive San Jose, CA 95111

Coaches

Mrs. Colette Evans

Miss Megan Stagi

Vivid Dance Team

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 cuttingedge 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!

The camp performance will be held on Thursday, June 18, 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

S UMM ER B AND CA MP S JUNE 1-5, 2026

Dates

Friends • Music • Memories

June 1-5 (Monday-Friday)

Time 8:30am-12pm

Cost $275

G Grades Elementary Camp:

Entering Grades 4-5

Junior High Camp:

Entering Grades 6-8 High School Camp: Entering Grades 9-12 (Co-Ed)

Location

Skyway Conservatory

100 Skyway Drive San Jose, CA 95111

Instructors

Mr. Jeff Wilson

Dr. Shane Ryan (’16)

Miss Katelyn Dietz (’14)

The Conservatory Band Camps are an opportunity for students to begin their journey of learning a band instrument. It is also designed for students with experience who want to improve their skills on traditional band instruments, including the flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, tuba, drums, and more. All experience levels are welcome, from beginners to advanced band students. Our goal is to make music and have fun with friends.

A short concert will occur on Friday, June 5 at 11:30am.

Note: All are welcome. Instruments are available to borrow.

Band Camp/PIE JR. Camp - DISCOUNT BUNDLE!

Bundle both Band Camp and PIE JR. Camp for a $50 discount savings.

Dates: June 1-5 (8:30am-12pm) / June 8-12 (9am-4pm)

Performance on Friday, June 12 at 3pm.

Note: Performers should wear comfortable athletic clothing and shoes. Snacks provided. Pack your own lunch.

JUNE 8-12, 2026

4th-12th grade

Friends • Creativity • Memories

Dates June 8-12 (Monday-Friday)

Time 9am-4pm

Cost $275

Grades

Entering Grades 4-12 (Co-Ed)

Location

Skyway Conservatory 100 Skyway Drive San Jose, CA 95111

Instructors

Mr. Jeff Wilson

Dr. Shane Ryan (’16) Miss Katelyn Dietz (’14)

Introduction to the skills of our award-winning Performing Indoor Ensemble (PIE). Rising fourth through twelfth-grade students will learn how to apply band (woodwind, brass, and mixed percussion) and color guard (flags, choreography, and dance) to produce a “mini-show” performance in one week. Some band experience required. No experience needed to participate with the color guard.

Performance on Friday, June 12 at 3pm.

Note: Performers should wear comfortable athletic clothing and shoes. Snacks provided. Pack your own lunch.

AFFIRMING THE ARTS

Spring 2026

Jan 24.............................. West Coast Elite Dance Competition - HS Dance

Jan 31................................ Conservatory Concerto Competition Finals Round - HS Music

Mar 5-7............................. 11-14 My Fair Lady - HS Theatre

Mar 26-28......................... Dare to Dream Jr. - A Disney Musical Revue - JH Theatre

Mar 30.............................. Spring Chamber Recital - JH/HS Chambers

Mar 31............................... Serenade to Spring - JH/HS Strings

Apr 18............................... An Evening of Note - K-12 Music

Apr 22.............................. Faith, Hope, and Love - JH/HS Choirs

Apr 23............................. Percussion Extravaganza - JH Drums/HS Percussion

Apr 23-25........................ Emotions: Sitcoms - HS Dance

Apr 30-May 2.................. Experiments in Comedy & Tragedy - HS Theatre

May 4-15.......................... Art Show - EL Art

May 8-9............................ Willy Wonka KIDS - EL Theatre

May 11.............................. Theatre & Dance Senior Showcase - HS Conservatory

May 12-15......................... Art Show and Visual Art Senior Showcase - JH/HS Art

May 13.............................. Festival of the Arts and Music Senior Showcase - K-12 Music

May 21-23......................... DanceScapes: Under the Big Top - EL/JH Dance

May 24............................. Conservatory Concerto Competition Winners Concert - HS Music

Grace Zhu (’27)

WARRIOR FUND

Tuition funds operations. Philanthropy fuels vision. Every gift makes a difference, so please consider donating to the Warrior Fund today.

UPCOMING EVENTS

May 11, 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 Thank

Giving PLANNED

The Shechem Oak Society honors alumni, parents, and friends who have included Valley Christian Schools in their estate plans, empowering future generations just as the oak at Shechem symbolized God’s faithfulness throughout biblical history. Your gift ensures our faithful witness to God’s kingdom mission through VCS to all generations.

We invite you to join the Shechem Oak Society. Visit plannedgiving.vcs.net or contact advancement@vcs.net to explore the variety of ways you can make a lasting impact at VCS.

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

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