Andover Theatre, this is for you

Whether you were a student under my direction in Andover Theatre or merely a repeat audience member, you probably know the mascot: Cardinal Gibbons. Those of you familiar with Andover know that one of our neighboring high schools has the cardinal as their mascot and you may be confused that the Home of the Huskies would adopt such a thing. However, since the inagural production at Andover High School, "Once Upon a Mattress," Cardinal Gibbons has appeared in every single show. Sometimes he's out in the open for people to see (sitting in a bird cage, being shot by a gangster, hovering during a traffic report), sometimes he's in a less obvious location (hiding in a rose bush, being squished in a laundry cart, perching precariously in a hat), but he's always there. His full name/title is Cardinal Licorice Gibbons, and he's become an indispensable member of the Andover Theatre family.

When I decided to embark on my journey this year, I knew I wanted to carry a tangible piece of this amazing family with me. I could not, however, see my way to bringing Card Gibb with me. He's far too important and, frankly, far too fragile to make the journey. So I found him a little friend.

Let me introduce you to Bishop Sunshine Gibbons. (Obviously he started his journey at the World's Largest Time Capsule in Seward, Nebraska.  I'll expect you all there on July 4, 2025 for the opening. If you don't know it, read the whole story here; my granddaddy was a pretty cool dude.)

In the grand tradition of Andover Theatre, the students took it upon themselves to come up with a name and backstory for my new traveling companion. Here is his story as it was told to me:

Sunshine (Maybe Sunny for short?) is Card Gibb's cousin and apprentice. Having seen his older cousin perform in so many shows, Sunshine longed to do the same. He heard that a wonderful director by the name of Ann Johnson was going to study in London, England and thought it would be the perfect opportunity to further his education as well...and to save money he thought he could bunk with her. 

Get it? He's a step down from a Cardinal...he's a Bishop. Here are a few things I enjoy about this new name:  first, I think it's perfect. He has a first name that is both a name and a title; that's fantastic continuity. His middle name is a clear reference to me (because I'm a ray of sunshine. No. Seriously.) Second, I never would have come up with it myself. I am reminded, again, that I get to work with some of the most delightful children in existence. I know you other teachers think your kids are pretty great.  I'm sorry, but you're wrong. Mine are the best.

Anyway, I wanted to introduce you to Sunny before my travels really begin. He's going to be my own version of the "Roaming Gnome." Even if I don't manage pictures of myself in the amazing places I visit, Sunny will certainly show up there. Look for him at many of the famous landmarks of London.