This story brings us to the intersection between “light and dark,” “monsters and men,” gargoyles and saints, “foul and fair.” Quasimodo is faced with a decision: engage with the world outside of his bell tower despite the pain it may cause or withdraw and never fully feel the beauty life can offer. We see the gifts that result from Quasi’s attempts to open his heart--friendship, love, a stronger sense of self--and we can relate to the loss and disappointment he experiences as well. We remember the courage that is demanded of those who choose to be fully present in this “bittersweet” world, and we remember that we ourselves are daily faced with the decision to numb ourselves to the pain at the cost of also losing the joy life can offer. 

It is my hope that you will leave the theatre tonight convinced that the beauty of life is worth the struggle, and is indeed somehow even accentuated by it.