I have loved the stars too fondly to be fearful of the night.

For those students who have worked long and hard to bring the play to fruition, well done! Standing in the hall as our guests were leaving, I saw many smiles, and heard many compliments for how well, on the whole, everyone worked together to make something greater than themselves.

I know there have been some long nights recently: for students with roles in the play, you are welcome to a week's extension on assignments for my classes due this week if needed - just let me know that you'd appreciate the extra time.

I've a few treats to drop off for the cast party, and I'll be nearby in case anyone wants a walk back to their own house door before the party fully breaks up, since I'd like to give the prefects involved in the production the same chance to relax and enjoy your triumph.

Again, well done!

First, I want to again thank everyone who has stepped forward to take part in the play. It's a huge undertaking even to get this far, and I want to say that I am most impressed with the work and thoughtfulness that has been shown so far, even when people might have been disappointed by their part. (A particular thank you to Miss Clearwater and all of the other YPL counselors who have been so helpful in figuring out the casting and details, as well.)

I did want to mention a few reminders.

1) Please remember that the Liberation of the Ministry that had a great deal of meaning for all of the adults now alive. Miss Moon has been extremely careful in her research and presentation, working with only the clearest sources and descriptions from those involved.

I know that it may be tempting for some of you to elaborate on the motivations of the characters you are playing, or even to ask the people portrayed for advice. However, please remember that these kinds of actions may be anywhere from a bother to quite rude for those people.

If you do have a question about a particular action, motivation, or any other related topic, please direct your questions to Mr Baddock (our dramaturg), or myself. If clarification is needed, we will see to the appropriate contacts and questions in a way that allows those who have already given so much for our Protectorate to live their lives with the privacy they deserve. Failure to abide by this will lead to your part being given to your understudy.

(Naturally, we recognise that some will have social contacts with various figures portrayed through the journals, by owl, and during the Easter holidays, but we expect you to be considerate and polite about this particular topic as well. The same, naturally, goes for Professor Amycus Carrow, Professor Alecto Carrow, and Professor Rabastan.)

For those wishing to continue participating in YPL activities beyond this year, know that your behavior in this matter is a factor in whether you will be allowed to do so: consider it a way to show the good sense and graciousness that sets an example for younger students and all others in the Protectorate.

2) Students are also expect to keep up with their work in all academic areas. A significant downward shift in the quality of your work may lead to your part being given to your understudy. (Those with upcoming OWLs and NEWTs should also take extra time to plan ahead.)

3) For those of you with smaller parts, I know that some of you have already been approached about the possibility of understudy roles. We will be discussing this in further detail on Sunday.

4) Upcoming YPL events:
You are all reminded that tomorrow, we will be gathering for our first YPL meeting of this new year, which will talk about other wizarding societies. We will be fortunate to have guests who travelled to France two summers ago as part of a move towards greater cooperation with French wizards, and we will also be talking about other areas as well.

In February, we will be having a visit from one of the top theatrical troupes. They will be sharing a number of approaches to support dramatic moments on stage. I've just learned that we will be fortunate enough to have several stay over night to work with our stage crews on Sunday, during the rehearsal period, as well. Naturally, I expect you all to be courteous and respectful of their time, but we anticipate having a chance for those interested to talk with them outside of the YPL and rehearsal times - perhaps a small gathering on Saturday night.

5) I naturally expect to be at rehearsals, but if you need to find me for other matters, I have picked up the research project again. Interested students may sign up for times on my office door, or find me out on the telescope any night we've some clear sky.

6) Finally, I believe I've corresponded with all those depicted who might wish to see a copy of the play, but if any of those depicted have additional questions, do not hesitate to contact me. Miss Moon and I both recognise the challenges of an event of this kind, and we are doing everything we can to ensure that those depicted feel comfortable with the setting. Of course, if you would like to attend the performance, we would also be glad to make arrangements.

Obviously, due to the new situation, our planned YPL activities this weekend must be adjusted.

Several faculty have graciously offered to give up their Saturday afternoon to talk about different approaches to wand care and maintenance. I'm also looking into arranging some kind of other special event for everyone's enjoyment.

While I hope very much that the restrictions will be lifted by February's planned event, I am also welcoming suggestions for alternate plans in case the travel restrictions are still in place. Do stop by my office and talk to me (or leave a note) if you have an idea that would be of interest. (You are welcome to suggest here, as well, if you prefer.)