Your Bio

Ms. Robin Lynn Rodriguez teaches English and Drama at Contra Costa Christian High School in Walnut Creek California. She received her B.A. degree in English from the University of California, Los Angeles in 1995 and graduated from Davis High School in Davis California in 1991. Ms. Rodriguez has been acting and directing since 1987.

Featured Galleries

"As it is in Heaven" by Arlene Hutton : Performed by the Contra Costs Christian High School Dramatic Arts Program, April 27, 28, 2007 at the Dean Lesher Theater, Walnut Creek CA. BACKGROUND: Arlene Hutton sets her play in the mid 1800s among a community of Shakers in Pleasant Hill, Kentucky. The story is based on the historic events of a revival that occurred at this time. Through her recounting of these events, Hutton explores the tension between discernment and openness to the spirit. How do we recognize God’s work? The play doesn’t try to answer this completely, but the final message of As it is in Heaven confirms that God’s grace is sufficient in covering what we cannot understand. The Shakers originated in England in 1772 under the leadership of Mother Ann Lee. They were an off-shoot sect of Quakers, and they were known for their ecstatic style of worship (including dancing and shaking). They moved to America in 1774 and grew in number, building 19 communal settlements and attracting 200,000 converts. Since the society was celibate, men and women lived in separate households known as “families”. With a motto of “hands to work, hearts to God”, the Shakers were known for their diligence and integrity, desiring to integrate their religious beliefs into every aspect of their lives. By the end of the 19th century the Shaker communities dwindled to near extinction, but today many of their settlements are historically preserved. They left a rich cultural heritage of famous architecture, craftsmanship, and art. The Shakers’ invented the flat broom and the clothespin, left a legacy of beautifully minimalist designs, and contributed many well known melodies (e.g., Aaron Copeland's Appalachian Spring). DIRECTOR'S NOTES: As this is my final production on the CCC stage, I could not be more blessed than to end with this show. As one of the most challenging and rewarding shows I’ve done here, it has truly been an experience of God’s providence and a reminder of what I love so much about this job, and what I will sorely miss. One of the unique aspects of this play has been the fodder it has provided for discussions of faith and our understanding of the work of the Holy Spirit. Although, we find ourselves at odds with many of the theological beliefs of Shakers, I believe that we can learn a lot from the way they approached their faith. During my career at CCC, I have been continually impressed with the importance of integrating faith and work. All that we have learned about the Shaker tradition has provided an inspiring reminder of this fact, and is a wonderful way to conclude my directorial work here. CAST: Ms. Hutton uses the beatitudes from Mathew 5:1-11 to delineate the nature of her characters. Caitlin Dunbar as Polly - Blessed are the poor in spirit; Amanda Sadler as Jane - Blessed are those who mourn; Lindsey Arms as Peggy - Blessed are the meek; Mackenzie Blommer O’Malley as Phebe - Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness; Jessica Blommer O’Malley as Betsy - Blessed are the peacemakers; Rebekah Eskandani as Izzy - Blessed are those persecuted for righteousness sake; Dena Nederhood as Fanny - Blessed are you when you are falsely accused; Lindsey Cook as Hannah - Blessed are the merciful; Sylvia Smith as Rachel - Blessed are the pure in heart. DIRECTOR, Ms. Robin Lynn Rodriguez ; ASSISTANT DIRECTOR, Breanna Head; SET DESIGN/CONSTRUCTION, Earl and Breanna Head; STAGE MANAGER, Gavan Wyrick.

"As it is in Heaven" by Arlene Hutton

Performed by the Contra Costs Christian High School Dramatic Arts Prog ...

Updated: May 06, 2007 5:11pm PST

"Fools" by Neil Simon - A stori about a vilage of stoopit peeple! : Performed by the Contra Costa Christian High School Drama Program, December 1 and 2, 2006 at the Dean Lesher Knight’s Stage Theater, Walnut Creek CA. Players in alphabetical order: Jessica Blommer O’Malley (Yencha the Vendor); Mackenzie Blommer O’Malley (Magistrate); Stephen Blommer O’Malley (Leon Tolchinsky); Matthew Burlingame (Mishkin the Postman); Robert Burlingame (Dr. Zubritsky); Lindsey Cook (Lenya Zubritzky); Mike English (Gregor Youskovitch); Rebekah Eskandani (Slovitch the Butcher); Dena Nederhood (Sophia Zubritsky); Gavan Wyrick (Snetsky the Sheep Loser). Director: Ms. Robin Lynn Rodriguez ; Assistant Director: Breanna Head; Set Design/Construction: Earl Head; Set Manager: Robert Burlingame. Director’s Notes: A village cursed with stupidity? Could any such place exist in reality? Is Neil Simon’s play a farcical fantasy or biting social satire? One of the most enjoyable aspects of performing any play with students is uncovering nuances that you only discover after weeks of rehearsing material over and over. Simon’s play reminds me of this fact, as I become increasingly aware of the observational humor that he has inserted throughout what at first seems like a slapstick comedy. I think Simon hits many nails on the head with his ideas of what education is and isn’t, and how people might play stupid or cower in a cave of ignorance as an excuse not to engage life. One thing I notice particularly is his cynicism about the demagogy that intellectualism and religiosity can be in our world. Perhaps this strikes close to home, since I’m hearing all of this through the filter of being both a Christian and a teacher. Could Christian education be the ultimate forum for dumbing down students? Perhaps, if “education” looks like Leon’s as he tries to teach Sophia arithmetic. Has Christianity becomes a formula in our classrooms, or a paint-by-numbers way to look at the world? I can understand how Simon might get that impression. That’s when I am reminded of what I love so much about this school. I love the opportunity this school gives me to challenge students in their understanding of God and the part that we play as His ambassadors in the world. I am so glad to be a part of our school when I realize that we are not falling into the trap of complacency. From what I know of my colleagues’ passion, I know that this is not happening to our students. At our school, we are lovers of all wisdom and understanding. We are passionate about the active part that we will play in God’s plan. Neil Simon will not find a Kulyenchikov in our classrooms. After all, we are doing this play.

"Fools" by Neil Simon - A stori about a vilage of stoopit peeple!

Performed by the Contra Costa Christian High School Drama Program, Dec ...

Updated: Jan 01, 2007 11:35pm PST

A Midsummer Night's Dream : A Midsummer Night's Dream by William Shakespeare. Performed by the Contra Costa Christian High School Dramatic Arts Program in the Knight's Stage Theater—Dean Lesher Center, Walnut Creek, CA, April 28 and 29, 2006. Director’s Notes: It often takes a while for our ear to become accustomed to Shakespearean language. Here’s a bit of starter on the story for your assistance. The play opens with a marriage of political alliance between Theseus, Duke of Athens, and Hypolita, Queen of the Amazons. As they are making plans to celebrate their upcoming nuptials, they are interrupted by Egeus who has brought her daughter (Hermia) to the Duke because she is refusing to marry her mother’s choice of suitors (Demetrius) and loves another (Lysander). The law of Athens requires that Hermia subject herself to her mother’s will or be put to death, or become a nun. The Duke gives Hermia four days to decide her fate. Lysander and Hermia decide instead to escape to The Forest of Athens and be married there. Helena, a friend of the couple’s who is in love with Demetrius, tells Demetrius of their plot, and they follow the couple into the woods. Meanwhile, a group of tradesmen (mechanicals) gather in the forest to practice a play they will perform for the Duke’s wedding. What none of these unsuspecting people know, however, is that the forest’s faerie world is in a flurry. Titania and Oberon, Queen and King of the Faeries, are feuding. Titania has refused to surrender an adopted changeling boy to Oberon. Oberon retaliates with a plot to apply a potion to her eyes that will cause her to fall in love with the first thing she sees. As all of these characters converge in the woods, what could Shakespeare possibly intend? Hmm....let us see. Robin Lynn Rodriguez, Director Cast: Jessica Blommer O’Malley (Helena); Stephen Blommer O’Malley (Theseus/Oberon); Karin Bosma (Egeus/Quince); Matthew Burlingame (Snug); Robert Burlingame (Bottom); Angel Castillo (Hippolyta/Titania); Lindsey Cook (Puck); Caitlin Dunbar (Philostrate/Faerie); Jeremy Edwards (Demetrius); Jordan Frank (Faerie); Dena Nederhood (Hermia); Alex Park (Lysander); Andrea Samuelson (Faerie); Amanda Sadler (Flute); Gavan Wyrick (Snout). Technical Support: Director: Ms. Rodriguez; Assistant Director: Breanna Head; Stage Manager: Melissa Bartlett; Set Manager: Robert Burlingame; Choreography: Jojo Frank (and Faerie).

A Midsummer Night's Dream

A Midsummer Night's Dream by William Shakespeare. Performed by the Con ...

Updated: May 14, 2006 5:13pm PST

Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead by Tom Stoppard : Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead by Tom Stoppard. A comedy with many questions — the ending isn’t one of them). Performed by the Contra Costa Christian High School Dramatic Arts Program in the Margaret Lesher Theater—Dean Lesher Center, Walnut Creek, CA, December 2 and 3, 2005. Director’s Notes: I am in constant awe of how God blesses us with his provision of plays that are a joy to produce and offer so much for us to intellectually and artistically sink our teeth into. I have wanted to do Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead from the first time I read it some sixteen years ago. In Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, Tom Stoppard satirizes Shakespeare’s Hamlet by retelling the story from the perspective of two minor characters. As I chose it for the fall production, I looked forward to realizing plans for the play that have been germinating for many years. Working from the fresh perspective of both director and teacher, however, I found my mind open up to the play in a completely new way. With my new eyes, I saw how pertinent this play’s themes were to the lives of our students, and how well they might relate to characters who found themselves paralyzed with uncertainty. In response to this, we decided to integrate the play (using excerpts from the script) into our English class curriculum, and I have been thrilled with the results. Discussing this play with my students has reminded me again of the importance of our school’s educational mission: to mature our student’s insight into, and biblical interpretation of, the world’s wisdom. I am infinitely grateful to be able to present this show. I hope you like it as much as I do and enjoy the opportunity this type of theater presents us. Robin Lynn Rodriguez, Director Cast: Jason Bennett (Hamlet); Jessica Blommer-O’Malley (Player); Stephen Blommer-O’Malley (The Player); Karin Bosma (Herald); Matthew Burlingame (Guard); Robert Burlingame (Polonius); Angel Castillo (Gertrude); Lindsey Cook (Guildenstern); Caitlin Dunbar (Rosencrantz); Michael English (Claudius and Player); John Klein (Player): Dena Nederhood (Player); Michelle Nip (Player); Elaina Unpingco (Ophelia) and Gavan Wyrick (Player). Technical Staff: Director: Ms. Robin Lynn Rodriguez; Stage Manager: Melissa Bartlett; Stage Technician: Suzanne Murray; Assistant Director: Breanna Head; Set Manager: Robert Burlingame

Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead by Tom Stoppard

Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead by Tom Stoppard. A comedy with ...

Updated: Dec 24, 2005 2:52pm PST

Galleries

"As it is in Heaven" by Arlene Hutton : Performed by the Contra Costs Christian High School Dramatic Arts Program, April 27, 28, 2007 at the Dean Lesher Theater, Walnut Creek CA. BACKGROUND: Arlene Hutton sets her play in the mid 1800s among a community of Shakers in Pleasant Hill, Kentucky. The story is based on the historic events of a revival that occurred at this time. Through her recounting of these events, Hutton explores the tension between discernment and openness to the spirit. How do we recognize God’s work? The play doesn’t try to answer this completely, but the final message of As it is in Heaven confirms that God’s grace is sufficient in covering what we cannot understand. The Shakers originated in England in 1772 under the leadership of Mother Ann Lee. They were an off-shoot sect of Quakers, and they were known for their ecstatic style of worship (including dancing and shaking). They moved to America in 1774 and grew in number, building 19 communal settlements and attracting 200,000 converts. Since the society was celibate, men and women lived in separate households known as “families”. With a motto of “hands to work, hearts to God”, the Shakers were known for their diligence and integrity, desiring to integrate their religious beliefs into every aspect of their lives. By the end of the 19th century the Shaker communities dwindled to near extinction, but today many of their settlements are historically preserved. They left a rich cultural heritage of famous architecture, craftsmanship, and art. The Shakers’ invented the flat broom and the clothespin, left a legacy of beautifully minimalist designs, and contributed many well known melodies (e.g., Aaron Copeland's Appalachian Spring). DIRECTOR'S NOTES: As this is my final production on the CCC stage, I could not be more blessed than to end with this show. As one of the most challenging and rewarding shows I’ve done here, it has truly been an experience of God’s providence and a reminder of what I love so much about this job, and what I will sorely miss. One of the unique aspects of this play has been the fodder it has provided for discussions of faith and our understanding of the work of the Holy Spirit. Although, we find ourselves at odds with many of the theological beliefs of Shakers, I believe that we can learn a lot from the way they approached their faith. During my career at CCC, I have been continually impressed with the importance of integrating faith and work. All that we have learned about the Shaker tradition has provided an inspiring reminder of this fact, and is a wonderful way to conclude my directorial work here. CAST: Ms. Hutton uses the beatitudes from Mathew 5:1-11 to delineate the nature of her characters. Caitlin Dunbar as Polly - Blessed are the poor in spirit; Amanda Sadler as Jane - Blessed are those who mourn; Lindsey Arms as Peggy - Blessed are the meek; Mackenzie Blommer O’Malley as Phebe - Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness; Jessica Blommer O’Malley as Betsy - Blessed are the peacemakers; Rebekah Eskandani as Izzy - Blessed are those persecuted for righteousness sake; Dena Nederhood as Fanny - Blessed are you when you are falsely accused; Lindsey Cook as Hannah - Blessed are the merciful; Sylvia Smith as Rachel - Blessed are the pure in heart. DIRECTOR, Ms. Robin Lynn Rodriguez ; ASSISTANT DIRECTOR, Breanna Head; SET DESIGN/CONSTRUCTION, Earl and Breanna Head; STAGE MANAGER, Gavan Wyrick.

"As it is in Heaven" by Arlene Hutton

Performed by the Contra Costs Christian High School Dramatic Arts Prog ...

Updated: May 06, 2007 5:11pm PST

"Fools" by Neil Simon - A stori about a vilage of stoopit peeple! : Performed by the Contra Costa Christian High School Drama Program, December 1 and 2, 2006 at the Dean Lesher Knight’s Stage Theater, Walnut Creek CA. Players in alphabetical order: Jessica Blommer O’Malley (Yencha the Vendor); Mackenzie Blommer O’Malley (Magistrate); Stephen Blommer O’Malley (Leon Tolchinsky); Matthew Burlingame (Mishkin the Postman); Robert Burlingame (Dr. Zubritsky); Lindsey Cook (Lenya Zubritzky); Mike English (Gregor Youskovitch); Rebekah Eskandani (Slovitch the Butcher); Dena Nederhood (Sophia Zubritsky); Gavan Wyrick (Snetsky the Sheep Loser). Director: Ms. Robin Lynn Rodriguez ; Assistant Director: Breanna Head; Set Design/Construction: Earl Head; Set Manager: Robert Burlingame. Director’s Notes: A village cursed with stupidity? Could any such place exist in reality? Is Neil Simon’s play a farcical fantasy or biting social satire? One of the most enjoyable aspects of performing any play with students is uncovering nuances that you only discover after weeks of rehearsing material over and over. Simon’s play reminds me of this fact, as I become increasingly aware of the observational humor that he has inserted throughout what at first seems like a slapstick comedy. I think Simon hits many nails on the head with his ideas of what education is and isn’t, and how people might play stupid or cower in a cave of ignorance as an excuse not to engage life. One thing I notice particularly is his cynicism about the demagogy that intellectualism and religiosity can be in our world. Perhaps this strikes close to home, since I’m hearing all of this through the filter of being both a Christian and a teacher. Could Christian education be the ultimate forum for dumbing down students? Perhaps, if “education” looks like Leon’s as he tries to teach Sophia arithmetic. Has Christianity becomes a formula in our classrooms, or a paint-by-numbers way to look at the world? I can understand how Simon might get that impression. That’s when I am reminded of what I love so much about this school. I love the opportunity this school gives me to challenge students in their understanding of God and the part that we play as His ambassadors in the world. I am so glad to be a part of our school when I realize that we are not falling into the trap of complacency. From what I know of my colleagues’ passion, I know that this is not happening to our students. At our school, we are lovers of all wisdom and understanding. We are passionate about the active part that we will play in God’s plan. Neil Simon will not find a Kulyenchikov in our classrooms. After all, we are doing this play.

"Fools" by Neil Simon - A stori about a vilage of stoopit peeple!

Performed by the Contra Costa Christian High School Drama Program, Dec ...

Updated: Jan 01, 2007 11:35pm PST

A Midsummer Night's Dream : A Midsummer Night's Dream by William Shakespeare. Performed by the Contra Costa Christian High School Dramatic Arts Program in the Knight's Stage Theater—Dean Lesher Center, Walnut Creek, CA, April 28 and 29, 2006. Director’s Notes: It often takes a while for our ear to become accustomed to Shakespearean language. Here’s a bit of starter on the story for your assistance. The play opens with a marriage of political alliance between Theseus, Duke of Athens, and Hypolita, Queen of the Amazons. As they are making plans to celebrate their upcoming nuptials, they are interrupted by Egeus who has brought her daughter (Hermia) to the Duke because she is refusing to marry her mother’s choice of suitors (Demetrius) and loves another (Lysander). The law of Athens requires that Hermia subject herself to her mother’s will or be put to death, or become a nun. The Duke gives Hermia four days to decide her fate. Lysander and Hermia decide instead to escape to The Forest of Athens and be married there. Helena, a friend of the couple’s who is in love with Demetrius, tells Demetrius of their plot, and they follow the couple into the woods. Meanwhile, a group of tradesmen (mechanicals) gather in the forest to practice a play they will perform for the Duke’s wedding. What none of these unsuspecting people know, however, is that the forest’s faerie world is in a flurry. Titania and Oberon, Queen and King of the Faeries, are feuding. Titania has refused to surrender an adopted changeling boy to Oberon. Oberon retaliates with a plot to apply a potion to her eyes that will cause her to fall in love with the first thing she sees. As all of these characters converge in the woods, what could Shakespeare possibly intend? Hmm....let us see. Robin Lynn Rodriguez, Director Cast: Jessica Blommer O’Malley (Helena); Stephen Blommer O’Malley (Theseus/Oberon); Karin Bosma (Egeus/Quince); Matthew Burlingame (Snug); Robert Burlingame (Bottom); Angel Castillo (Hippolyta/Titania); Lindsey Cook (Puck); Caitlin Dunbar (Philostrate/Faerie); Jeremy Edwards (Demetrius); Jordan Frank (Faerie); Dena Nederhood (Hermia); Alex Park (Lysander); Andrea Samuelson (Faerie); Amanda Sadler (Flute); Gavan Wyrick (Snout). Technical Support: Director: Ms. Rodriguez; Assistant Director: Breanna Head; Stage Manager: Melissa Bartlett; Set Manager: Robert Burlingame; Choreography: Jojo Frank (and Faerie).

A Midsummer Night's Dream

A Midsummer Night's Dream by William Shakespeare. Performed by the Con ...

Updated: May 14, 2006 5:13pm PST

Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead by Tom Stoppard : Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead by Tom Stoppard. A comedy with many questions — the ending isn’t one of them). Performed by the Contra Costa Christian High School Dramatic Arts Program in the Margaret Lesher Theater—Dean Lesher Center, Walnut Creek, CA, December 2 and 3, 2005. Director’s Notes: I am in constant awe of how God blesses us with his provision of plays that are a joy to produce and offer so much for us to intellectually and artistically sink our teeth into. I have wanted to do Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead from the first time I read it some sixteen years ago. In Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, Tom Stoppard satirizes Shakespeare’s Hamlet by retelling the story from the perspective of two minor characters. As I chose it for the fall production, I looked forward to realizing plans for the play that have been germinating for many years. Working from the fresh perspective of both director and teacher, however, I found my mind open up to the play in a completely new way. With my new eyes, I saw how pertinent this play’s themes were to the lives of our students, and how well they might relate to characters who found themselves paralyzed with uncertainty. In response to this, we decided to integrate the play (using excerpts from the script) into our English class curriculum, and I have been thrilled with the results. Discussing this play with my students has reminded me again of the importance of our school’s educational mission: to mature our student’s insight into, and biblical interpretation of, the world’s wisdom. I am infinitely grateful to be able to present this show. I hope you like it as much as I do and enjoy the opportunity this type of theater presents us. Robin Lynn Rodriguez, Director Cast: Jason Bennett (Hamlet); Jessica Blommer-O’Malley (Player); Stephen Blommer-O’Malley (The Player); Karin Bosma (Herald); Matthew Burlingame (Guard); Robert Burlingame (Polonius); Angel Castillo (Gertrude); Lindsey Cook (Guildenstern); Caitlin Dunbar (Rosencrantz); Michael English (Claudius and Player); John Klein (Player): Dena Nederhood (Player); Michelle Nip (Player); Elaina Unpingco (Ophelia) and Gavan Wyrick (Player). Technical Staff: Director: Ms. Robin Lynn Rodriguez; Stage Manager: Melissa Bartlett; Stage Technician: Suzanne Murray; Assistant Director: Breanna Head; Set Manager: Robert Burlingame

Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead by Tom Stoppard

Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead by Tom Stoppard. A comedy with ...

Updated: Dec 24, 2005 2:52pm PST

Ring 'Round the Moon : "Ring 'Round the Moon: A Romantic Fable Without the Rose Colored Glasses." Written by Jean Anouilh, adapted by Christopher Hamptor. Performed by the Contra Costa High School Dramatic Arts Program at the Dean Lesher-Knight Stage III Theater, Walnut Creek, CA on April 29-30, 2005. About the Play: The theatrical device of having one actor playing twin main characters may cause a bit of confusion at first, but we imagine you’ll get the hang of it as the play unfolds. The older and wiser (by ten minutes) Hugo will be the catalyst for the play’s action, as he hatches a plan to save his clueless brother Frederic from an ill-fated engagement. He has only one night and the setting of a masquerade ball attended by all the familiars of his social set. As with all plans, things will not go according to plan. But don’t worry, at the end of all these escapades we will see that even the beau monde can be made human by love. As Madame Desmortes insists: “Everything has to end happily — it’s only decent.” Robin Lynn Rodriguez, Director About the Author: Jean Anouilh, (June 23, 1910 – Oct. 3, 1987) one of the most popular French dramatists since World War II, was sometimes called a "mere entertainer." Choreography and music are often integrated into his plots — yet a seriousness and a pessimistic view of life lie beneath his farce and caricature. Jean Anouilh wrote Ring ‘Round the Moon in 1947 and Christopher Hampton adapted it in 1950. Jean Anouilh also wrote Antigone.

Ring 'Round the Moon

"Ring 'Round the Moon: A Romantic Fable Without the Rose Colored Glass ...

Updated: May 30, 2005 1:20pm PST

Three Murders..and its only Monday : "Three Murders...and its only Monday". A mystery comedy with a trombone interlude by Pat Cook. Performed by the Contra Costa Christian High School Dramatic Arts Program at the Dean Lesher Center, Knight Stage III on November 5-6, 2004, Walnut Creek CA. About the Author (from Dramatic Publishing): Pat Cook has been writing since his boyhood days in Frankston, Texas. Since then he has written for educational radio, television and nightclubs. His first play was published by Dramatic Publishing in1976. He now has over 80 published plays and is involved with audience-participation murder mysteries produced in and around Houston, where he and his wife reside. Director’s Notes: “Without danger, there is no theater.” - Peter Schaeffer (Author of Amadeus). All right, I confess. I love to run on adrenaline. Many of you may have already long suspected that this was the case. It’s true. I admit it. Which is a good thing, considering my job. There is never a lack of adrenaline-producing urgency in the process of directing these productions. But this is the very nature of theater. There is something uniquely suspenseful about live performance. I relish the buzz in the dark air behind the curtain, before the lights go up. What will happen? How will it all come off? The audience is waiting. This fall production has not been lacking in its fair share of creative tension. We lost our lead actor two weeks before opening. We rehearsed another week without being certain who would take his place. The cast has had to deal with new blocking, new lines, and innumerable technical problems. But the show goes on. And this show is going on as a great success. God has been gracious in His provision. I can't even recount how He has met our needs in ways I could have never anticipated. I have also been awed by how hard this cast has worked. I have never seen a cast so bonded in their determination to produce a superb and seamless performance. The resulting product is a fine one, and I'm sure you will enjoy it. This has truly been a high stakes performance, but the payoff has been worth it. I am left with only a thankful heart. Robin Lynn Rodriguez, Director

Three Murders..and its only Monday

"Three Murders...and its only Monday". A mystery comedy with a trombo ...

Updated: May 30, 2005 7:52pm PST

As You Like It : "As You LIke It" or "Feed Your Need to be Free (adapted a wee-bit by Robin Lynn Rodriguez) by William Shakespear. Performed by the Contra Costa Christian High School Dramatic Arts Program at the Dean Lesher Center, Knight Stage III on March 26-27, 2004, Walnut Creek CA. William Shakespeare's “As You Like It”, written between 1598 -1601, is considered by many to be the pinnacle of Shakespeare's sophisticated comedies. Like “Midsummer Night's Dream” and “Much Ado About Nothing”, As You Like-It is a pastoral "comedy, which means that the majority of the play is set in a pastoral or wilderness landscape. Shakespeare's pastoral comedies contain elements including love at first sight, masquerading characters (especially women playing men) and class barriers being broken (banished Dukes befriending shepherds). The common theme of the plays is that of freedom. As indicated by their title, pastoral comedies are also typified by a story that takes an abrupt turn of setting from the city or court into the realm of nature. Dilemmas that arise in court can only be solved within this woodsy world. Here, without societal restrictions, characters can strive to work out their various conundrums in a series of adventures that would be neither possible nor permissible in the city. This escapist world has been termed "The Green World of Shakespeare" by scholars. As You Like It is a classic..green world', comedy, with the story centering on banished royalty who must find refuge in the nearby forest of Arden. The remainder of the story takes place in this wild world of Arden serving as, in contrast to the court, a fantastical place of liberty. It is an iconoclastic world in which shepherds can befriend courtiers. It is a haven, where characters can shout out with abandon the name of their secret love, and a magical place where their lovers will always be conveniently hidden behind the neighboring tree to hear them. It is a world of special privilege, where a princess who in court could do no more than stiffly bow in her gown at a prospective suitor, has license to be the aggressor in her own romance. In the end, however, it is a place of fantasy, a world of dreams, which melt like cotton candy on the tongue or, as Shakespeare himself put it, dissolve into thin air. After all is said and love is won, the characters will leave this world. They will return to the court and pick up their daily lives again. The hope is, according to the play, that they return wiser, happier, and more fulfilled as a result of their brief escapade. I would say that this accurately reflects the experience of both the cast and me during this production. It really has been a magical escape. Robin Lynn Rodriguez, Director

As You Like It

"As You LIke It" or "Feed Your Need to be Free (adapted a wee-bit by R ...

Updated: May 30, 2005 8:59pm PST

A Shayna Maidel : "A Shayna Maidel" by Barbara Lebow. Performed by the Contra Costa Christian High School Dramatic Arts Program at the Dean Lesher Center, Knight Stage III on November 7-8, 2003, Walnut Creek, CA. Play Summary and History: "An emotional powerhouse of almost overwhelming proportions." -The Hartford Journal Enquirer. Rose Weiss leads a comfortable life in Brooklyn New York, 1946. But when her older sister, Lusia, missing for years in Poland, is at last located, Rose's life changes drastically. When Lusia arrives, each sister must look inside herself to find connections to the family she thought she had lost. Moving deftly between post-war America and pre-war Poland, award-winning writer Barbara Lebow's haunting play is a heartfelt look at one family's experience of loss, hope, and reunion. The play was first produced as a "play in progress" in 1984 and was funded in part by the Georgia Council for the Arts. The New York Times reported on the first production, "A powerfully, haunting, and deeply affecting portrait of a family, which conveys the aftermath of the Holocaust through a poignant and imaginatively conceived examination of one family's experience." (Text excerpted from City Light Online and Wesleyan College News Director's Notes). Choosing the right play for our high school production is always a challenge. It is also, however, a wonderful opportunity. As I pore over dozens of scripts and pray for God's direction, I am also continually impressed with the tremendous opportunity these plays present. I had wanted to do Barbara Lebow's “A Shayna Maidel since the first time I read it some sixteen years ago. As I selected it for the fall production, I looked forward to realizing plans for the play that had germinated over several years. Once I began the process, however, I was excited to see God open my mind to the play in a completely new way. I acquired a new level of appreciation for the play from my new perspective as both director and teacher. Specifically, God impressed on me the insight Lebow shows on the struggle of waiting for God to fulfill his perfect will. It is a powerful thing to perform a play on a subject like the Holocaust and capture the tender and profound truth of hope in God in any circumstance - out of any circumstance. Barbara Lebow's title “A Shayna Maidel” means a "pretty girl" in Yiddish. In Yiddish, however, the phrase has a breadth of meaning which includes hope, prospect, and promise. It is, in essence, a blessing. The reiteration of this phrase throughout the play mirrors the characters' commitment to keeping hope alive in the aftermath of their loss. This resilience is a testament to the power of God's promises. Robin Lynn Rodriguez, Director

A Shayna Maidel

"A Shayna Maidel" by Barbara Lebow. Performed by the Contra Costa Chr ...

Updated: May 30, 2005 10:32pm PST

Tartuffe : "Tartuffe" by Jean Baptiste Moliere (translated by Richard Wilber). Performed by the Contra Costa Christian High School Dramatic Arts Program on May 30-31, 2003 at the Dean Lesher Center Knight Stage III, Walnut Creek CA. Play History: Moliere is considered, without rival, the French national playwright. His acumen for insightful portraits of people and their folly caused him to single-handedly elevate comedy to a respectable genre. With Tartuffe, Moliere gained the greatest acclaim of his career. The play was first performed for King Louis XIV of France in 1664. Although favorably received by the King, the play's sharp lampoon of what society holds most dear – its own self-righteous sense of worth - caused it to be deemed heretical by the Church upon its first production. The play was banned from public performance due to the strong objections of influential church leaders. The Tartuffe controversy constituted the most intriguing public scandal of the day. Throughout the ban, ironically, the play enjoyed great popularity as Moliere was often invited to give private showings of the play. Finally, after revisions, the ban was lifted in 1669 and Moliere enjoyed the most successful public run of any of his plays. Tartuffe is considered to be Moliere's masterwork and one of the great dramas of western literature. (Text excerpted from University Theater's Director's Notes by Michael Baker). Director’s Notes: Choosing the right play for our high school production is always a challenge. It is also, however, a wonderful opportunity. It isn't easy to find scripts that require only two men, once you've converted all uncles and brothers to women's parts. It is equally difficult to find material that is suitable for student actors - a truth I face continually as I put down the umpteenth play that I won't be able to cut out enough profanity and bed hopping. And yet, as I pore over dozens of scripts and pray for God's direction, I am also continually impressed with the tremendous opportunity these plays present. I eagerly anticipate what God will be teaching us in the experience of studying, dramatizing, and performing a play over the course of a semester. I am in constant awe of how He has blessed us by providing, exceedingly abundantly, plays that are a joy to produce and provide so much for us to intellectually and artistically sink our teeth into. And in the best moments, like our post-show discussions, I believe that these productions reflect the culmination of our school's educational mission: to mature our student's insight into, and biblical interpretation of, the world's wisdom so that they can impact the world for Christ. With God's provision of Tartuffe, I could not have asked for a more beautiful interlacing of all these elements. What could be a more pertinent issue facing Christians today than the world's cynicism towards the church? What more important a discussion is there for a Christian School than what constitutes real vs. hypocritical piety? How much more satisfying a way is there to study all of this, than through the beauty and artistry of Moliere? Robin Lynn Rodriguez, Director

Tartuffe

"Tartuffe" by Jean Baptiste Moliere (translated by Richard Wilber). P ...

Updated: May 31, 2005 9:24pm PST

Exit the King : "Exit the King" by Eugene Ionesco performed by the Contra Costa Christian High School Dramatic Arts Program at the Dean Lesher Center Knight Stage III on November 14-16, 2002, Walnut Creek CA. “When man is lost in the world, all his actions become senseless, absurd, useless” — Eugene Ionesco. Ionesco, whose other plays include “Rhinoceros” and “The Bald Soprano”, was given the auspicious title “father of theater of the absurd.” This non-realistic theatrical movement came to life in Europe at the middle of the 20th century and was heavily influenced by existential philosophy. During this time, playwrights experimented with breaking theatrical conventions (e.g., having characters aware of being in a play) in order to point out the comic chaos and absurdity of life. Other absurdist playwrights include Samuel Becket, Edward Albee, and Harold Pinter. In Exit the King, Ionesco uses the character of King Berenger I as a portrait of both the extent and limitations of human accomplishment. His darkly humorous perspective on humanity’s achievement is beautifully encapsulated by the line in Act II: “A new wisdom’s taking the place of the old, a stupidity and ignorance greater than before, different of course but still the same. Let that console you and rejoice your heart.” This line inspired the vision for the play: set at the dawn of the European renaissance (c. 1492) with absurd anachronisms and a humorously heavy dose of gold, gild and glitter. It is good for us to appreciate humanity’s accomplishments and, in the same breath, recognize how fleeting and limited they are in relationship to God’s universe. As Ionesco beautifully articulates, “when man is lost, he is senseless”. When we know this, we will greater appreciate finding ourselves, and our importance, as a part of God’s plan. We will discover how much we need him to prevent our lives from being absurd. Robin Lynn Rodriguez, Director

Exit the King

"Exit the King" by Eugene Ionesco performed by the Contra Costa Christ ...

Updated: May 31, 2005 8:00pm PST

The Importance of Being Earnest : "The Importance of Being Earnest" by Oscar Wilde. Performed by the Contra Costa Christian High School Drama Program on May 3-4, 2002 at the Del Valle Theater in Walnut Creek CA. This play was the first sucess of Oscar Wilde’s career when it was produced, and became an immediate hit in London in 1895. Wilde wryly subtitled “The Importance of Being Earnest” — “a serious comedy for trivial people.” As part of a literary and artistic movement labeled “aestheticism,” Wilde set his play in front of audiences as the perfect expression of the movement’s creed “ars gratis artis” or “art for art’s sake.” In contrast to the Victorian mores of the period, which held that art’s purpose was solely for instruction and inspiration, the “aesthetics” strove to prove that art’s value lie in its intrinsic beauty and pleasure. Simply put, Wilde wrote with a passion to entertain. In this play, Wilde constructs a fantastic plot, improbable dialogue, and as you follow the twists and turns of “style over substance” the story dissolves and leaves nothing but a residual sweet taste. There is very little to analyze when you have finished “The Importance of Being Earnest.” But as London audiences found, the pleasure of the experience is well worth the price of admission. Robin Lynn Rodriguez, Director

The Importance of Being Earnest

"The Importance of Being Earnest" by Oscar Wilde. Performed by the Co ...

Updated: Jun 04, 2005 4:36pm PST

Antigone : “Antigone” by Jean Anouilh, performed by the Contra Costa Christian High School Dramatic Arts Program on November 15-17, 2001 in the Contra Costa Christian High School MPR, Walnut Creek CA. "lt is better to be a live dog than a dead lion' - Ecclesiastes 4,5. Originally produced in Paris in 1942, Jean Anouihl's play was first performed while France was occupied and part of Hitler's Europe. The play was an enormous success. In the conflict between idealism vs. pragmatism, depicted by the characters of Antigone and Kreon, the French people saw their own struggle of having to survive Nazi occupation while maintaining their humanity and principles. With humor and poetry Anouihl has constructed a brutally honest exploration of what concession is necessary, and what is worth dying for. For Christians, this debate is as topical today as it was for Anouihl's original audience. We must continually seek God's wisdom as we struggle to maintain our moral imperatives in light of the very real need to negotiate a world that is broken, temporal, and to which we are subject. Robin Lynn Rodriguez, Director Play Notes: Jean Anouihl 's Antigone is adapted from Sophocles' famous tragedy written in the 5th century BC. Sophocles' Antigone is part of a trilogy of Theben plays; Oedipus Rex, Oedipus in Colonus, and Antigone, which depict the fall of the house of Oedipus. The first of these plays is the infamous story of Oedipus, who became King of Thebes, but unwittingly fulfilled his tragic destiny by killing his father and marrying his mother. The story of Antigone continues the tale of the family and is set against the backdrop of a civil war, in which Oedipus’ two sons have killed each other in a fight for the throne, Antigone and lsmene are Oedipus' two remaining children, and Oedipus' brother Kreon has taken over as king of Thebes. The Players (in alphabetical order): Joseph Baker (Kreon); Melissa Bartlett (Page); Grace Casey (Antigone); Sara Christensen (Nune); Noah Frank (Haemon); Christiana George (Eurydice);Austin Kruggel (Jonas Krugg); Melissa Miracle (lsmene); Missy Reno (Snout Binns); Krista Willock (Chorus); lmara Young (Messenger). The Technical Artists: Robin Lynn Rodriguez (Director); Melissa Bartlett (Assistant Director); Erika Vander Meulen (Stage Manager); Gregg Hall (Master Carpenter); Nathan Ofeish (Lighting Director); Christi George (Costume Design).

Antigone

“Antigone” by Jean Anouilh, performed by the Contra Costa Christian ...

Updated: Jun 04, 2005 8:35pm PST

The Big Move In : Photos from Josh and Robin Lynn's move into their new home.

The Big Move In

Photos from Josh and Robin Lynn's move into their new home.

Updated: Dec 28, 2006 9:26pm PST

Christmas 2006 : Christmas dinner at the Rodriguez home

Christmas 2006

Christmas dinner at the Rodriguez home

Updated: Dec 28, 2006 10:27pm PST

LV2005 : Las Vegas trip, December 19 to 21, 2005

LV2005

Las Vegas trip, December 19 to 21, 2005

Updated: Dec 23, 2005 10:42am PST

Thanksgiving2005 :

Thanksgiving2005

Updated: Dec 17, 2005 6:39pm PST

Ashland OSF Oct 2005 :

Ashland OSF Oct 2005

Updated: Nov 17, 2005 8:25am PST

Wedding :

Wedding

Updated: Aug 13, 2005 12:14am PST

Wedding Reception :

Wedding Reception

Updated: Aug 13, 2005 12:23am PST

Wedding Guest, Family & Friends - See Your Picture :

Wedding Guest, Family & Friends - See Your Picture

Updated: Aug 07, 2005 6:51pm PST

Wedding Rehearsal :

Wedding Rehearsal

Updated: Aug 13, 2005 12:12am PST

Wedding Slide Show :

Wedding Slide Show

Updated: Aug 13, 2005 12:11am PST

Napa Valley Tour :

Napa Valley Tour

Updated: Jul 31, 2005 10:02pm PST

Taos New Mexico Trip : On February 19-23, 2008, Wendy and I attended a conference in Taos New Mexico. The following are some photos we took on the trip. The featured photo is my favorite. It was taken at dust, behind our hotel and includes both natural and artificial light. I call it Ranchito de Taos. Native Americans like to illuminate the buildings to keep evil spirits away. We enjoy the fantastic food at Joseph's Table in the La Fonda Hotel in Taos and the Inn of the Anasazi in Santa Fe. Wendy purchased local art and pottery including a watercolor of Taos Pueblo by former theatrical set designer, Jane Grover, and a seed bowl from Leyandro Rodriguez. Wendy was captivated by the Sangre de Christo mountains which explains the many dashboard and in car shots. The shots of the Rio Grande Gorge were taken from the 600 foot bridge over the river. You may also notice the prominence of the Virgin Mary which the Native Americans venerate over Jesus. In the small church on the Taos Pueblo, Mary's on the alter with Jesus on the side (a compromise made with the Spaniards about 350 years ago. Needless to say, Wendy and I fell in love with Taos and now understand why it as attracted so many people from so many parts of the world, for so many years.

Taos New Mexico Trip

On February 19-23, 2008, Wendy and I attended a conference in Taos New ...

Updated: May 02, 2008 9:40pm PST