To the editor:

A few weeks ago I had the pleasure of seeing the brilliant Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” performed at Southwestern Michigan College.
Being a native thespian of southwest Michigan and SMC, I felt the need to report on this performance.
The entire production was masterful and wonderful beyond compare.
Everything, from the set design to the extravagant light show, equalled Broadway.
Before I dive deeper into my praises, I would first like to mention the mastermind behind this masterpiece performance, Paul Mow, who, as always, has directed and produced another show that filled the house beyond capacity and was worthy of a standing ovation after every drop of the curtain.
Mow is a brilliant artist, performer, director and producer. Most theater patrons of southwest Michigan know his name by the numerous plays, musicals, concerts and cabarets he has given to this area.
I have never met anyone who was not overjoyed, overwhelmed with emotions and completely in awe after witnessing one of Paul Mow’s productions.
I graduated from Brandywine High School.
The summer after high school, I packed my bags and moved to Southern California to join The Young Americans. During my tenure with the group, I performed on the same stage with several Broadway stars.
I may have only been in the chorus, but there are no small parts, just small actors. I was blessed to perform with world-famous choreographers, producers, singers, composers and recording artists.
I learned a great many things, including how to recognize raw and real talent. Every December, The Young Americans put on a Christmas show in Orange County. I had the opportunity to perform in this production twice over. In less than 14 days, Director Bill Brawley (from Niles) and his lovely wife, and choreographer, Robyn Brawley, produced an entire show from start to strike.
That meant casting more than 350 young performers, fitting over 1,000 costumes and orchestrating at least 30 set changes. My fellow residents of southwest Michigan, anyone would say this is impossible.
Through this very process, and many others, I learned a great deal about the world of performing.
Especially, if you have a committed director at the helm, the ship will sail and it will, without a doubt, be an absolute success.
Last April I had the distinct honor of performing in the Beckwith’s debut production of “Spring Awakening.” The director was the one and only Paul Mow.
This was my first experience with Mr. Mow and it hopefully will not be my last.
He knows what he wants and he usually gets it.
There are those who might find it difficult to work with Paul, but if you are serious and ready to work hard, Paul Mow is the director for you. This isn’t a low budget, half-done, throw it together kind of director.
Paul often uses his own funds to invest in his productions. The profit after is usually lacking in dollar bills, but overflowing in admiration and pride for his performers. Paul has no biological kids of his own, but we are all his children and we are all very proud to call him our friend, mentor, role model, voice teacher and director. Paul Mow is magnificently brilliant and southwest Michigan is blessed to have him. Hopefully, Broadway won’t try and steal him. Thank you, Paul. You and your many talents are priceless.
August Garritano
Niles