The first-ever Drama Club at LES (Lakeland Elementary School) is producing its first-ever play this year —- Annie Kids — March 2, 3.
Sponsored by the LES PTA, Jamie Johnson, vice president of cultural arts for the PTA, said the performance is not part of a touring group as in previous years. “This play is not part of a touring group as in years past. This year, we are using a kids’ version of the play where the length of lines, etc. have been made shorter to be more appropriate for memorization in this age group. Because of this change, we have also started a Drama Club for the first time this year.”
Performances are to be at 6 p.m. March 2 and 4 p.m. March 3 on the stage in the school cafeteria. Tickets are $2 for students and $5 for adults.
Tickets can be reserved in advance at Annie Tickets 2017-18 said Mrs. Johnson. Checks can be paid to the LES PTA and sent to the school, 10050 Oakseed Lane, attention Drama Department.
Mrs. Johnson said Kristen Newton, fourth-grade math and science teacher and Drama Club sponsor, selected the play “because it has such big personalities in it, and it has many parts for all of our Lakeland stars, and because it is a classic!”
Over 165 students auditioned for the parts and 85 were selected to be involved in the play, said Mrs. Johnson.
She said the PTA is covering all cost-related aspects of the play including costumes, props and sets with many items found at second-hand stores or provided by parents. PTA members will also help, alongside teachers, during the performances, at the ticket desk and assisting the cast.
The students practice during club time, 7:45 – 8:45 a.m. Monday through Friday and started rehearsals the first of January. The school day runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. LES serves grades K-4.
