In the wake of the devastating Eaton fire that swept through Altadena early this year, a group of sixty students from Altadena Arts Magnet and Eliot Arts Magnet schools faced unimaginable loss. Their homes, their theater, and their entire neighborhoods were consumed by flames on an exceptionally windy night just one week into the new year. However, the story of these resilient young individuals does not end in despair. Instead, it transforms into a narrative of triumph as they channel their experiences into a one-night-only, sold-out performance of "Shrek the Musical Jr." at Los Angeles' prestigious Ahmanson Theatre. This event not only showcased their talent but also symbolized their journey from survivors to victors.
As the community rallied around them, these students became the heart of a different kind of drama. The fire had displaced nearly half of their school's population, including more than three-quarters of the cast of "Shrek the Musical Jr." Despite these challenges, the show was determined to go on. Drama teacher Mollie Lief and choreographer Billy Rugh played pivotal roles in nurturing the students' spirits. On the evening of the performance, moments before stepping onto the grand stage, Lief shared words of encouragement with her students, likening them to phoenixes rising from the ashes, creating something beautiful that would last forever.
The atmosphere backstage was a blend of anticipation and reverence. Rugh motivated the students, urging them to connect deeply with the audience, drawing energy from within. Together, they chanted, synchronizing their breaths, preparing to captivate the crowd gathered at the Ahmanson Theatre. As the lights dimmed and the stage illuminated, the students embarked on their theatrical journey, bringing to life the tale of Shrek, an ogre who discovers love and acceptance amidst adversity.
The musical resonated profoundly, reflecting themes of self-love and resilience. Ninety minutes later, the audience erupted into cheers, offering a standing ovation for the ecstatic young performers. Among them, Journee Everly, who portrayed Donkey, expressed her joy, while Monahmi Ruiz, playing Dragon, conveyed a bittersweet sentiment about the fleeting nature of such a grand experience. The production featured professional elements, enhanced by encouraging messages from Broadway stars like Lin-Manuel Miranda and Daveed Diggs.
Recalling the events leading up to the fire, Tuesday, January 7th, was initially promising for the newly formed cast of "Shrek the Musical Jr." During their first table read, excitement filled the air. However, less than two hours later, Altadena was engulfed in flames. Choreographer Billy Rugh witnessed what he believed to be the fire's inception from his home near the Pasadena Rose Bowl. That night and the following day saw families fleeing, losing homes and being displaced.
Lief, awakening to a house filled with smoke, evacuated not due to mandatory orders but because of the oppressive smog enveloping the area. Driving to San Diego with her family, she witnessed updates flooding her faculty group chat, detailing colleagues' losses and the destruction of Eliot Arts. Thirteen-year-old Jolie Simmons, who played Princess Fiona, endured personal tragedy as her family home burned down. Staying at the Pasadena Convention Center, transformed into an emergency relief center, Jolie watched videos of her school ablaze, further deepening her connection to the loss.
Despite these hardships, the resolve to continue the show strengthened. An email from Jolie inquiring about memorizing lines amidst her loss underscored the necessity of moving forward. Center Theatre Group and Pasadena Playhouse swiftly mobilized resources, facilitating the production. Dylan Hunt, who portrayed Shrek, humorously recalled envisioning himself performing on the Ahmanson stage prior to the fire. His dream materialized under dire circumstances, highlighting the power of perseverance.
This collaboration exemplified community support, involving professional vocal coaches and granting the students access to the Ahmanson Theatre's expertise. Scenery, props, and costumes were generously donated, ensuring the success of both performances—a matinee and the grand evening showcase. Although financial contributions towards rebuilding the schools' arts programs remain crucial, challenges persist, such as potential layoffs affecting educators like Lief. Undeterred, the students plan to advocate for their beloved teacher at an upcoming school board meeting.
Through their dedication and courage, these young performers have not only revived their passion for theater but have also inspired countless others. Their journey from devastation to triumph serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of community and artistry. As the final curtain fell, leaving behind memories etched in hearts, these phoenixes truly rose, transforming ashes into a legacy of hope and resilience.