Children's Show Brings Christmas Joy

By Ellen Murphy '22, Communications Apprentice
December 8, 2021

This year’s Children’s Show was The Velveteen Rabbit, the story of a stuffed animal becoming real through the love of a child. 

The show is special for many reasons. Tyler Mader '22 is playing the Velveteen Rabbit, the lead role of the show, and it is her first theater production. It is also the first show that will be performed in the theater, live, without masks, since the beginning of the pandemic. It is also the second production since Chris Hill '01 took over the role of Theater Director this year. 

“After two years of pandemic theater, the magic of performing in front of a live audience is finally back," Hill said.

“Auditioning and being a part of the play was definitely out of my comfort zone, but I am so happy I did it," Mader said. "It has been one of my best experiences so far during high school. I look forward to rehearsing every day because of the positive, encouraging, and fun atmosphere the theater has created. Everyone has welcomed me with open arms and I encourage everyone to get involved with theater!”

Elizabeth Fastner Pershing '99 brought her three children to see the show. 

"My kids loved the show! It kept them all engaged, which is tough to do since they are 12, 9, and 6. They thought it was a great story that was wonderfully acted," she said. "My husband and I met at CDH so to be able to share the school with our children is a gift. Chris Hill is a friend of ours from high school and he invited our kids to go on stage and look at the set after the show. It’s those wonderful experiences that we gain because we are still attached to this community!"

Ellen Murphy '22 is a Communications Apprentice. She sees herself as creative and a leader, and is also a member of the volleyball team, math team, and involved in The Chronicle. She is excited to share her writing and ideas with the broader CDH community.