Not only is the cast and crew starring in and facilitating various aspects of the Spring production of “Once On This Island, Jr.” at Newark Middle School, but they are also involved in building sets, developing props and overseeing costumes for the show that will be presented April 27th at 7 p.m. and April 28th at 2 p.m. at NMS.
“I love seeing them work on the projects and take ownership of these show elements,” Director Emily Howard said. “The sixth graders build and paint props, seventh graders organize costumes, and eighth graders build and paint the sets.
“Once On This Island, Jr.” tells the story of Ti Moune, a peasant girl, who rescues and falls in love with Daniel, a wealthy boy from the other side of her island. Throughout the story, four powerful “gods” that represent love, death, earth, and water guide Ti Moune on her journey. The ensemble serves as the Storytellers bringing the audiences along for the ride,” Howard said.
Brooke Hartpence, NMS vocal music teacher, is the vocal music director for the show. NMS Stefan Uveges, an NMS English teacher is the assistant director. Howard is also the choreographer.
Cast members include: Cody Acquista, Brooklyn Baker, Alana Bedell, Alexis Bedell, Felicity Brey, Skye Capron, Grace Casler, Kody Cobb, AJ Comella, Bria Dano, Melissa Dennis, Taisa Ferrell, Caleb George-Cady, Skylie Gianella, Sophia Hasseler, Alyssa Hosmer, Lea Houck, Courtney Jadus, Meiah Johnson-Danzey, Natalie Kelley, Jaida Kent, Melea Ann Kuzmenio, Mia Logan, Ethan Meeks, Laura Meeks, Paris Morris, Abigail Olmstead, Caitlyn Packer, Alana Ransco, Rebecca Spry, Veronica Swann, Gabriella Taylor, Megan Thompson, Olivia Tyler, Abdiel Ubiles, Beatrice Van Riper, Anna Verdine, Kathryn Verdine, Lindsay Wells, Jania Young.
The Crew includes: Keira Blevins, Sara George, Andrew Joslyn, Emily Lang, Angelica Morales, Erica Rieke, Caleb Rodas, Madison Silverio, MiKayla Soura, Hailey Valentine, Markis Weeks, Brianna Welch, Kian Williams, Ava Ransco, Gavin Kelley, Marissa Krause and Austin Chambers.
Tickets are $2 and can be purchased at the door.