Boulder Creek’s Theatrical Renaissance
Writer Joseph J. Airdo // Photography by Loralei Lazurek
When the curtain fell on Boulder Creek High School’s theater program last summer with the passing of its beloved teacher, Robert “Doc” Schwarz, it seemed the final act had come. Enter Traci Fitzgerald, a University of Southern California theater graduate with professional stage and screen experience, but no formal teaching background.
“I felt terrible for the students who would be returning to school without a teacher,” Fitzgerald recalls.
Encouraged by colleagues, including Nancy Tobison, BCHS’s piano instructor, Fitzgerald explored the possibility of stepping in. Despite her lack of classroom experience, the school recognized her expertise and offered her a provisional position as a subject matter expert. The next day, Fitzgerald found herself at the helm of the theater program.
This transition from performer to educator marks a new chapter for both Fitzgerald and BCHS, honoring the past while charting a course for the future.
“I had the privilege of attending ‘Doc’s’ memorial service, where I witnessed the love and legacy he left behind among his family, peers and students,” Fitzgerald shares. “I’ve been so excited about these talented kids, and we’ve all worked hard to create new beginnings.”
This fall, those new beginnings materialize in the form of “Tinker Bell,” a whimsical production set to enchant the Anthem community.
“We’re excited to kick off our fall season with ‘Tinker Bell’ to help bring families together and experience live theater with their children at reasonable prices, without having to drive into Phoenix,” Fitzgerald explains.
The magic extends beyond the stage with BCHS hosting a Fairies & Pirates Tea Party prior to opening night, offering young attendees a chance to immerse themselves in the world of Neverland through costumes, crafts and interactions with the cast.
The tea party, sponsored by Nanette Miller from State Farm Insurance in Anthem, exemplifies the community support that makes such events possible. As the theater program continues to grow, Fitzgerald notes that they welcome donations and sponsorships from local businesses to support productions like “Tinker Bell.”
Fitzgerald’s passion for her newfound role is evident as she reflects on her community.
“I’ve lived in Anthem for over 20 years and am just now discovering how wonderful and talented the students are,” she marvels, her admiration encompassing the school’s diverse arts programs, from choir and dance to visual arts and music.
As BCHS raises the curtain on this new era of theater, Fitzgerald and her students demonstrate that with dedication, creativity and a touch of pixie dust, dreams can indeed take flight — both on and off the stage.
“In our classes, everyone has the opportunity to shine,” says Fitzgerald, noting that BCHS’s theater program not only allows students to hone their craft, but also build confidence and creativity. “Vocal warmups and theater games help us connect with our own voices and each other, fostering a supportive place where ideas can flourish.
“Every class is a chance to explore new possibilities, experiment with different techniques and support each other’s growth. It’s this sense of community and shared passion that makes theater so special and rewarding.”
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Fairies & Pirates Tea Party
Saturday, Oct. 26 // Noon–2 p.m. // Boulder Creek High School Auditorium Lobby // 40404 N. Gavilan Peak Parkway, Anthem // $15 // az-deervalley.intouchreceipting.com
‘Tinker Bell’
Nov. 6–9 // 7 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday // 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday // Boulder Creek High School Auditorium // 40404 N. Gavilan Peak Parkway, Anthem // $10 // az-deervalley.intouchreceipting.com
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