With my youngest child’s graduation close at hand, I’ve been reflecting on my association with Mr. Fletcher and the music and drama departments, which have been a major part of our lives at Western Dubuque School.

Our experience began in l989, about the same time as Mr. Fletcher’s.  Our two oldest boys, Troy and Brett, were in the first play directed by Tom called, “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown."  Troy’s introduction of flashpots excited Mr. Fletcher at his first spring concert.  He encouraged both boys to participate in the Grand Theatre’s production of “Showboat."  This opportunity opened a whole new world of experiences and growth that caused a turning point in their lives.  During these past seven years I have seen the impact Mr. Fletcher as had on many other student’s lives by encouraging and motivating them to use their talents.  I have witnessed this through the concert choir’s growth from twenty people to presently over one hundred.  I've also seen the evolution of the drama department from a simple story of Charlie Brown to the elaborate production of “Grease."  How gratifying it has been to see our sons involved in most of these productions.

When Mr. Fletcher came to W.D. in l990, Swing Choir was already in existence.  He started his program in l99l under the name “5th Avenue” recruiting only sixteen members, including Brett.  Their first appearance at competition was at Cedar Rapids Jefferson that school year.  The following year brought the introduction of Damon Brown, choreographer.  The idea of spending a weekend with him did not sound very enjoyable.  However, it was amazing to see the level of their performance after working with Damon.  When in competition at Jefferson and Mt. Zion the ratings were dismal. However, by exposing them to competition, they were able to see what could be accomplished.  The summer after Brett’s graduation, Mr. Fletcher and a student went to check out a camp in Ohio.

When Eric entered high school in l994, he became involved with Mr. Fletcher through Concert Choir and Musical Productions Class.  “5th Avenue” had received their first recognition trophy the previous year. The numbers had continued to grow, and they now had 3l members.  Students were practicing outside the regular class time along with attending camp in the summer working with choreographer, Damon Brown.  With every performance the show choir had become more confident and professional.  They were now being recognized at competition and for the first time making finals.

Eric did his first tech work at the winter concert of ‘96.  The program now included an eleven member Show Band.  That year 5th Avenue became Grand Champions for the first time along with receiving best vocals and best choreography.  The 96-97 season brought new challenges with the introduction of more props.  We were now competing against bigger schools and regularly making finals, along with getting publicity in our area.  Eric was now co-manager of the tech crew, working hard so that the show would go on without a glitch.  By the end of that school year, we began to hear of a national competition, Showstoppers.  Mr. Fletcher would send in a tape.  He felt confident that his program would be one of those selected.

This year a new and unique show was put together for 55 members under the direction of Mr. Fletcher and Damon with hopes of going to Showstoppers.  Mr. Fletcher now had an assistant, Mr. Johnson, to aid in bringing his group to a new level of excellence.  The announcement was made at the Dessert Concert that we were one out of 45 schools chosen from over 700 entrants to perform at Showstoppers.  Our destination would be Epcot Center in Orlando, Florida.  Now our students were more driven and motivated than ever before.  However, the excitement of starting competition season was cut short by the unthinkable -- the sudden death of a fellow performer, Rob Luensmann. Mr. Fletcher helped his group through the grieving process and to focus on their new goal -- to dedicate the season to Rob.  On the following Saturday as we were crowned Grand Champions, they knew Rob was still with them.  Along with a good season for our performers, the musicians were awarded the “Best Band” award, and it was with great pride that I watched Eric and his group receive recognition with the ”Best Crew” award.

After we had hosted our own successful invitational for the first time and ended the competition season, we geared up for Showstoppers.  It was my privilege to be a chaperone and share in this unique experience with Eric.  I had started this journey with Brett seven years ago and now was at the climax with Eric participating on the national level at Epcot Center and finishing in fifth place.  What a ride it has been!

In closing, I personally want to thank Tom for being such an important part of our sons’ lives and enriching their high school experience.  To our family, “Fletcher” has been and always will be a household word.

Best wishes as the journey continues!