IF ALL THE SKY WERE PAPER

"If All the Sky Were Paper"

After bestselling author Andrew Carroll found a riveting, heartfelt letter written by a distant cousin deployed as a pilot in World War II, he embarked on a trip to all fifty states and to more than thirty countries across the globe, including two active war zones, in search of more wartime correspondences. The letters and emails he found—by combat troops, medics, nurses, and chaplains, as well as family members on the home front and civilians caught in the crossfire of battle—came to represent to Carroll the “world’s great undiscovered literature.” They weren’t just about warfare, he realized, they were about the human condition itself—love and longing, courage and resilience, grief and hope, compassion and mercy, and, ultimately, reconciliation. Carroll’s journey, which is at times harrowing but also humorous, creates the narrative arc of the show. Already performed in high schools and colleges, community theaters, and major venues across the country, If All the Sky Were Paper is a play that is both timely and timeless.

A note on Costume Clarification and Character Representation: 

As the directors, we want to clarify that the intention behind the costumes in our production was never to misrepresent or insult anyone, especially those with a military background. While we may not have adhered to exact historical or official military uniform standards, our goal was to focus on the essence of the characters rather than strict accuracy. We wanted to highlight their roles and experiences, portraying them with respect and authenticity, but without the constraints of perfect uniform details. We understand that military attire carries significant meaning, and it was never our intention to diminish that. Our primary objective was to honor the characters and their stories in a thoughtful, inclusive way, while acknowledging that we may not always get every detail right. 

Out of respect for the integrity and importance of Spotswood Rice and Oscar Mitchell, the African American characters in our play, and in light of the fact that we currently do not have an African American actor available to portray the role, we have made the decision to have the character's lines read from backstage or played pre-recorded accompanied by an image projected on the screen. This approach aims to honor the role while being mindful of representation.

Randy Groen & Kevin Wassenaar

"Beyond the Letters"

As you will see tonight, this play is full of poignant and interesting letters from real individuals who lived through wars across the ages. What we aren't able to show you on stage is what happens with some of these individuals "after the letters." 

Miss Anna Janssen, our student teacher from Dordt University, not only was able to assist us with directing this show, but she also created a Community Education website to accompany our play. Here you will find more information on a handful of the people we hear from in this play. 

In addition to finding out more about these people and their war letters, you will have the opportunity to share your letters with the community as well. There are instructions on how you can submit your families war letters to be shared not only with our community, but also with The Center For American War Letters.  

We invite you to visit this website, of course, AFTER the performance and help us collect these incredible stories before they pass away.  Follow the link or take a picture of the QR Code with your smartphone to visit the site!

Link:  https://sites.google.com/centralbluejays.org/beyondtheletters/home 

Cast

Creative Team

Meet the Company

Jake Abrams

“William Czako” “Robert Gutman” “Dr. William Child”

My name is Jake Abrams. I am a CMCS Alumni as well as one of the HS math and science teachers. I performed at CMCS for three years in high school, and I performed for two years in college with a traveling drama ministry called King's Players. Theater has been a huge part of my life and has helped me to grow in many ways. It has helped to to develop leadership skills, and being a part of an acting ministry helped me to grow in my faith and become more comfortable with sharing my faith. We have prepared a great show for you all, and we hope you enjoy every minute of it!

Henry Ammermann

“Ernest Uno” “Dick Cowan” “Kurt Vonnegut”

Hey there, my name is Henry. This is my 6th production here at CMCS. My favorite productions that I have been in are: "Sound of Music," "Our Place," and "Becoming Juliet." I began theater in the 8th grade and have had so much fun! My favorite production that I have performed in was a One Act production titled, "Our Place." We managed to go to state and win a starred performance because of it. Lastly, I hope you enjoy the show and thank you to everyone who has and still is serving our country!

Marly Breems

“Gunter Leopold”

My name is Marly Breems. I am a CMCS alumni as well as a retired teacher/principal/Marketing Director/ Chemical Dependency Counselor. This included 13 years at Central- 7 as a teacher and 6 as Elementary Principal. In retirement I have found multiple volunteer opportunity including pinch-hit preaching, Hospice Volunteer, and Volunteer Driver. My acting experience has mostly been in bit parts in church and community skits and dramas. I enjoy the camaraderie of the cast and the thrill of taking on another character.

Ella Brouwer

“Goldie Marcellus”

My name is Ella Brouwer. I am a sophomore at CMCS this year. This is my 5th performance at Central. I started in 7th grade with the "All Together Now" fall musical review! 8th grade year I was in "The Sound of Music." My freshman year I was in "The Hope and Heartache Diner" one act and "Becoming Juliet." I loved working on this show and getting to know the community members more! I hope you enjoy "If All The Sky Were Paper!"

Isaac Brouwer

“Narrator/Andrew Carroll”

Howdy, I'm Isaac Brouwer. I am a CMCS alumni. I work as a cook and server at Heglund Catering and enjoy getting the four wheeler out or participating in airsoft battles in my free time. I am 22 years old, and have previous experience acting at Central when I was a student, and was a part of Bunde CRC’s Maundy Thursday performance last year as well.

Alysia Buteyn

“WWII Nurse Vera Lee”

My name is Alysia, and I’m a sophomore this year. This is my sixth production here at Central. I’ve always been drawn to the stage. The lights, costumes, music, and everything put into it. It has been so fun working alongside my friends and now family members, watching them learn and grow with experience, as well as myself. Everyone has worked so hard these past weeks and we hope you enjoy the show!

Jamin Buteyn

“Iraqi Child”

Hello! I’m Jamin Buteyn. I am 14 years old and in 8th grade. This will be my third production at CMCS. I was in “The Sound of Music” and helped with lighting for “Becoming Juliet”. I also play soccer and golf for school. My dad and sister will be in the play too. I hope you enjoy our performance!

Scott Buteyn

“Sebron S.” “Spotswood Rice” “Sir Arthur Harris” “Kuwaiti Father”

My name is Scott Buteyn and I have been the social studies teacher at Central since 2006. I had the pleasure of joining the Central cast in the 2017 production of "Annie." My wife, Taryn, and I have four children in school. Our older two, Alysia and Jamin, are also in the cast of "If All the Sky Were Paper."

Anica Damhof

“Mrs. Myatt”

Hello! My name is Anica Damhof. I am a senior this year and this is my third production at Central. My two past productions included “The Sound of Music” and “Becoming Juliet”. The drama program has created friendships I value more than I could’ve imagined. We are so excited for this performance of “If All The Sky Were Paper”. Enjoy the show!

Joel De Boer

“WWI Chaplain William Mayse” “Richard Luttrell”

Hello. I am Joel De Boer. I got connected with CMCS and its drama team 4 years ago. From my early childhood, I got involved in acting. My first major part was the lead for the Pied Piper of Hamelin, done in 1st grade. It involved many recesses of practice learning my lines and songs. Since then, I have been involved and directed many dramas. Being with the CMCS drama team and its directors has been exciting. There is great energy and deep skills developing. The talent is awesome and I have learned a great deal. I hope that you find this presentation as an honor to our veterans and this school's love for the Arts.

Moses De Groot

“George Rarey”

Hey, my name is Moses De Groot. I am a junior at CMCS and this is my second production. Previously, I was involved in the performance "Becoming Juliet." I enjoy drama because it allows me to use my gifts to serve the community and it is a lot of fun! I hope you enjoy the show as much as I do.

Preston Dehmlow

“Canadian Soldier Fred”

Hi, my name is Preston Dehmlow. I am a junior here at CMCS. This is my second performance. The first show I did was last year's spring play, "Becoming Juliet." Enjoy the show!

Etta Grannes

"Female American Missionary"

Hello! My name is Etta Grannes. I’m 16 years old and this is my fourth performance! One of my favorite things about drama are the friendships. You really do end up as one big family by the end of the productions. I hope you enjoy the show!

Landon Groen

"Mort Elevitch" "Alfred Chater"

Hi! My name is Landon Groen, and I’m a junior college student at the University of Northwestern in St. Paul, MN. I’m an alumni here at CMCS, and I graduated with the class of 2022. During my time at CMCS, I was involved in every theater production I could possibly be in, including spring productions like “The Nit Wits” and “Hello my Baby," and in one acts such as “Dirt” and “The Lost Elevator.” Since graduating CMCS, I’ve become heavily involved with the Film program at UNW, continuing my acting passion in front of the camera, and learning how to master the skill of being behind one as well! I’m extremely excited to be coming back for another show at CMCS, and I really hope you enjoy this important production.

Evan Gustafson

"Carroll Jordan" "Hans Shroter" "Polish Teen Chaim"

Hello! My name is Evan Gustafson. I am a sophomore here at CMCS. My first production at Central was the one act during my 7th grade year, "Dirt." I have been in every production here since. Some of my hobbies are hunting, fishing, and hanging out with friends and family. Thank you for coming to the show!

Michelle Hanson

"Mrs. S"

Hello! I'm truly honored to be a part of this very powerful production. I have a love for theatre and that love has been shared with some of my amazing kids. This time I get to share the stage with two of those kids, Elsa and Evan! The entire cast and crew are an amazing group of people and I'm so grateful for CMCS' Drama Dept. I'm also so grateful for YOU and your support of this program and these very talented kids. I invite you to become thoroughly immersed in this show and listen to every word spoken. I hope you cry, and laugh, and that you leave here holding tightly to the belief that we are all connected much more than we may think. Enjoy the show!

Kaylee Hentges

"Anonymous Canadian Woman" "Tetsuko Tanaka"

Hi my name is Kaylee Hentges! I graduated this past year and I am so excited to be back for this performance! This will be my 10th production with CMCS. I am thrilled you came out to watch and see all of the hard work these we put into it! Thank you so much for coming and I hope you enjoy it!!

Kelsey Hillenbrand

"Patricia Andjelkovic"

Hello! My name is Kelsey Hillenbrand and I am a senior this year here at CMCS. This is my third theater performance and I am so excited to share it with you all! I’ve had so much fun growing closer with the cast, along with creating lots of new memories. I hope that you are able to feel a connection with every individual and are driven by the emotion within each piece. This performance opens your eyes to a point of view of lives that have been impacted by events in history, so may your hearts be touched throughout. I hope you brought some tissues, enjoy the show!!

Anna Janssen

"De'on Miller"

Hi there, my name is Anna Janssen. I am a student teacher here at CMCS, finishing my final semester through Dordt University. During my time on campus, I was heavily involved in the theatre department, in many different ways, but acted in six mainstage productions: Comedy of Errors, The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe, Dancing at Lughnasa, Our Town, Peter and the Starcatcher, and The Diviners. Wherever I end up next, I hope to keep doing theatre! It has been such a joy to share this art form with the community. Thank you for coming and enjoy the show!

Carene Jean Louis

"Kathy McConkey"

Hello everyone my name is Carene Jean Louis! I am 17 years old and a senior at CMCS. This will be my 2nd year in the drama progam! The programs I have been in include: “The Hope and Heartache Diner”, and “Becoming Juliet”. I love being a part of the drama program, and am excited for what shows are to come later on in the year! I hope you all enjoy the show!

Annaliese Wood

"French Woman"

My name is Annaliese Wood. I am 16 years old and am a sophomore at CMCS. This will be my third performance in drama. Something that is really special about drama is all the people I get to do it with. I have such amazing, and encouraging friends and teammates and the best of the best directors. It has been really fun seeing everyone work hard to make this play a success! I hope you enjoy the show!

Sydney Watson

"Civil War Wife"

My name is Sydney Watson! I am 17 years old and a junior at CMCS. This will be my 4th drama production. I started drama when I was in 8th grade and my first production was “All Together Now.” I was also in “The Sound of Music” my freshman year. That production was my favorite because of the music and it is one of my childhood favorites. I hope you enjoy our production of “If All The Sky Were Paper!” Enjoy the show!

Elias Wassenaar

"Soviet Child"

Hello! My name is Elias Wassenaar, and yes, one of the director is my dad. I am in 7th grade and this is my first performance here at CMCS. Growing up I was always backstage with my mom (who costumes a lot of shows) and around the plays, and have grown to love theater! I enjoy playing sports with my friends, robotics and coding, being outdoors, and trying new things. I'm excited to be able to perform with one of my heroes, Isaac B! Thank you for coming and I hope you enjoy the show!

Stephen Vogel

"Indian WWI Soldier" "Al Puntasecca"

My name is Stephen Vogel. I'm a 2008 graduate of CMCS and I work at Countertops Plus. My wife, Katy, and I have been blessed with 6 kids all enrolled here at CMCS, Maddie (10th), Charlie (8th), Ollie (6th), Jordan (4th), August (2nd) and Adelaide (PreK). This will be my second time on stage here at CMCS, my first being "Headin' for a Weddin' " my senior year. I feel very blessed to be able to have this unique opportunity to perform with Maddie, see her use the gifts and abilities God has given her and be able to see just why she loves this drama department so much! Thank you all for coming out, especially any Veterans in attendance. I thank you for your service and sacrifices you made so that we can be here tonight enjoying the freedoms we have in this nation! We hope you enjoy our performance of "If All the Sky Were Paper"

Sophia Vogel

"Latino spouse of Iraq" "Afghanistan"

Hey! My name is Sophia Vogel and I am senior at CMCS. This will be my second performance. I was in my first drama perduction last year in “Becoming Juliet." One of my favorite things about being in drama is hanging out with friends outside of school. I hope you enjoy the show!!

Maddie Vogel

"Maso Mohomadi"

Hey! My name is Maddie Vogel and I'm a sophomore this year! This will be my 4th production at Central and I have absolutely LOVED being a part of Drama! The upperclassmen have had an amazing impact on me throughout the past years in theatre. Now it's my turn to be that person, I want to show the younger ones the value that I see in them and how loved they are. I want to set an example for them just like I've been shown by many others of how to live out the gifts that God has given us to bring Him glory! That's what I hope to do tonight, perform my best and at the end give all the glory to God, and I think I can safely say the same for all the other performers beside me (both students and community members :) who have worked hard to put this production together. So without further ado, we present to you..."If All the Sky Were Paper" Enjoy!

Caleb Timmer

"Butch Livergood" "Ed" "WWII Soviet Soldier"

My Name is Caleb Timmer. I am a sophomore this year and 15 years old. this will be my third year of being involved in drama. I started drama in my 8th grade year as an extra in "The Sound Of Music." I have also been In "Duke's Diner" And "Becoming Juliet" since then. Hope you enjoy the Show!

Renae Slagter

"German Woman"

Hi. My name is Renae Slagter. I'm older than I want to say. It's a testimony to my maturity level when you consider that I had to be a senior citizen before I got a role in my Alma Mater's high school play. I've helped on productions both in HS and when my kids were in HS. Randy & Kevin and their support team have been excellent! Give them an extra pat on the back! Enjoy!

Dane Slagter

"Wilson Price" "John N."

My name is Dane Slagter, I am a CMCS alumni, class of 21’. I first started drama in 10th grade starring in “Get Smart." In my senior year, I was in “Unsound Effects”, and “Hello! My Baby!” I really enjoyed my time in the plays and have a lot of fond memories in them. Coming back to it after almost 4 years was really cool. It took a while to get back into it, but all that practicing pays off! I’ve always been fascinated with those who are willing to fight for our country, and really hope this play reaches out and says thank you to all the brave veterans who have served and are serving our country. Both of my grandfathers were veterans and I know that they would certainly be touched by these stories. I hope you all enjoy the show!

Maggie Setrum

"Female WWII Nurse"

My name is Maggie Setrum. I’m a Junior at CMCS and this is the 2nd drama production I have been involved in. Some favorite hobbies of mine are reading and creating art. I love playing music and learning new things.

Brooke Schlegel

"Christine McNeff"

Hi! My name is Brooke! I am 16 years old and am a junior at CMCS. This is my 5th production here at CMCS. My first production was “All Together Now,” a music review and my most recent being “Becoming Juliet.” I have enjoyed all of the productions I have been a part of and love the people I am able to spend time with! I hope you enjoy the show!

Elsa Rosemarie

“Sharon Allen”

Welcome to this show! I would call it ours but it really belongs to the brave men, women, and family members who poured their hearts out into these letters. I am a 2023 CMCS graduate and am currently working at the Reading Therapy Center in Willmar. I have been involved in theatre in one form or another since I was in 5th grade, and involved at Central since my Sophomore year. This show is different from any production I have ever been a part of. This show carries messages, brings perspective, and immortalizes those who wrote letters never knowing if anyone would read them or care about their stories. Just one among millions they thought. Thank you for hearing their stories. And to those of you who have served our country, or have loved ones who have served us - thank you for your service and your sacrifice. To our good and gracious God be all the glory and honor.

Nick Pederson

"Erwin Blonder" "John Pohlman" "American Revolution Soldier"

My name is Nick Pederson. I am an alumni of CMCS, and this is my second production. I was kindly bullied into doing theater by my loving friends and family. This led to me joining the One Act team to perform "Duke's Diner" as my first production. I sincerely hope you enjoy the show.

Gabriella Pederson

"Vietnamese Wife" "Anonymous British Woman"

Hi everyone, I’m Gabby Pederson. I am currently 17 years old and a senior at Central. This will be the 11th production I have been a part of! My Grandpa Wayne served in the Navy where he fought in Vietnam. He is my inspiration and motivation for this show, and I hope him and all other Veterans are remembered and honored through this show. Enjoy the show!

Jonah Marcus

"Canadian Soldier" "Mr. Myatt" "US Soldier Dick Leonard

Howdy! My name is Jonah Marcus. Since I’ve graduated from Central, I’ve taken up carpentry and have been enjoying it since! I’ve been in a few plays from the drama department and it has been a blessing to be to be invited to preform again! I was a little rusty from being in "The Nit Wits", but now I’m more than ready! I hope you will enjoy the performance!!

Bo Duininck

Lights

My name is Bo Duininck, and I'm in 9th grade. This is the fourth play that I have done lights for, and I have also done 4 years of cross-country. I hope you enjoy our performance today!

Morgan Groen

Sound

Hi! My name is Morgan Groen, and I am a senior at Central. This is the 4th production that I’ve helped with at school. My first time helping was playing the bass piano part for “Hello! My Baby!” I am helping with the tech crew again doing music. I usually get “voluntold” into these roles by my dad, but I always end up enjoying my time helping the cast. Hope you enjoy the show and that it makes an impact on your life!

Ethin Mammen

Stage Hand

My name is Ethin Mammen, and I’m a junior at CMCS. This will be my 2nd year involved in drama. I started last year in the spring play as a backstage hand. I hope you enjoy the play!

Elzie Wassenaar

Stage Hand

Hello my name is Elzie Wassenaar. I am 16 years old and currently a junior at CMCS. I have been backstage with my mom since second grand and this will be my fourth performance doing drama on stage. This year is my first year being backstage manager. I love being in drama and being in the environment that comes along with it. I hope you enjoy our performance and thank you for attending!

Daryl Vander Well

Projections

Kevin Wassenaar

Director

Welcome to tonight's show! Directing this show has been a deeply fulfilling journey, and I’m filled with immense gratitude for the incredible cast, crew, and creative team who brought this vision to life with such dedication and passion. Every rehearsal (individual and group), every moment on stage was a testament to their hard work, vulnerability, and artistry. I am also profoundly thankful to those whose stories we are privileged to tell—those whose experiences are represented in this work. Their strength, resilience, and truth have inspired us all to do justice to their voices and to honor the lives that shaped this narrative. I am deeply humbled by the collaboration, the care, and the commitment that have made this production not just possible, but meaningful. This show would not have come to life without the collective effort of every individual involved, and for that, I am endlessly appreciative. And last, but not least, thank you, God, for your providence, guidance, and graces shown throughout this show. May what we have done tonight be accepted as our worship offering to You, our Audience of One.

Randy Groen

Director

Hello and welcome! We are so excited to bring "If All the Sky Were Paper" to the CMCS theater. A big Thanks to the creative team for all of their work in making this a great show. Thanks to my family for all the encouragement and putting up with all the long hours of being gone. It has been a wonderful privilege working with your children over the last 29 years helping them use their talents on the stage. God has richly blessed this drama program through the years and we thank you for all your support. Enjoy the show!

Jennifer Wassenaar

Costume, Hair & Make-up Designer

Good evening, and welcome to the show! This is the 18th performance I have costumed and my 7th performance backstage. I have to give a huge shout-out to my daughter Elzie, who has been alongside me the whole time pulling costumes, uniforms, boots and shoes, hats, and more. I have also enjoyed working with the best directors, but I may be bias. Enjoy the show!

Jacob Van Dyken

Set Design & Construction

My name is Jacob Van Dyken. I'm a 2013 graduate of CMCS, and have a daughter in 1st grade along with 2 kids at home. I graduated from Dordt University in 2017 with a degree in theatre, which is also where I met my wife Megan. I started doing theatre at CMCS in 2009, and continued all the way through college. I currently work for the City of Willmar and own a Screen Printing and Embroidery business. My wife and I have loved being able to be a small part of CMCS theatre over the past few years!

Megan Van Dyken

Front of House/Promotions

My name is Megan Van Dyken, and I majored in Marketing and Theatre Arts at Dordt College. It's been a privilege to work with this team on this beautiful story. In 1943, my great-uncle Lyle was inducted into the Army, where he served as a WWIl Tech 4 high speed radio operator. He served in Europe for 21 months. Thirty days after D-Day, he crossed into France, and also served in Germany. Lyle was fluent in Morse Code, and received numerous decorations and battle stars for Normandy, Northern France, Ardennes, Rhineland and Central Europe. I pray that these real stories would inspire us to see that in the midst and aftermath of the deep, deep suffering of war, we are never alone, and that there is still hope for a future where these hurts are healed and these trials are redeemed.

Elsa Rosemarie

Assistant

Welcome to this show! I would call it ours but it really belongs to the brave men, women, and family members who poured their hearts out into these letters. I am a 2023 CMCS graduate and am currently working at the Reading Therapy Center in Willmar. I have been involved in theatre in one form or another since I was in 5th grade, and involved at Central since my Sophomore year. This show is different from any production I have ever been a part of. This show carries messages, brings perspective, and immortalizes those who wrote letters never knowing if anyone would read them or care about their stories. Just one among millions they thought. Thank you for hearing their stories. And to those of you who have served our country, or have loved ones who have served us - thank you for your service and your sacrifice. To our good and gracious God be all the glory and honor.

Anna Janssen

Assistant Director

Hi there, my name is Anna Janssen. I am a student teacher here at CMCS, finishing my final semester through Dordt University. During my time on campus, I was heavily involved in the theatre department, in many different ways, but acted in six mainstage productions: Comedy of Errors, The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe, Dancing at Lughnasa, Our Town, Peter and the Starcatcher, and The Diviners. Wherever I end up next, I hope to keep doing theatre! It has been such a joy to share this art form with the community. Thank you for coming and enjoy the show!

WHY WE DO WHAT WE DO...

Central Minnesota Christian School Drama Department

Central Minnesota Christian School offers students a variety of Fine Arts in which they may participate. Whether that be Band or Choir, One Act, or Design Theory, each of these activities allows our students first and foremost bring Glory to God. In addition to this, it is our hope that through these activities they will grow in faith and deepen their competence in each discipline. Students will learn about teamwork, self-discipline, character development, faithfulness, consistency, perseverance, public presentation, leadership, excellence, and competition.

It is our prayer that through the Fine Arts our students will help their audience explore the human condition, challenge the culture we live in, and discover more about their role in it. Playing a piece of music, creating a beautiful painting, or performing an intense scene can evoke deep emotions of joy, pain, fear, triumph, or love within both the audience and the artist. Our challenge is to help students to engage their audience in a meaningful experience, and express Biblical perspective and truth through whatever activity they participate in.

Thank You!

*The CMCS Office Staff and Custodial Staff

* The Barn Theatre- Costume and prop rental. 

*Mary Ahrenholz for the wonderful meals.

*Todd Howard for advising us on all things military.