Interview with Miss Jett (Director)
1. How did the auditions go?
Auditions went incredibly well! We had roughly 60 students across 3rd through 5th grade audition for the production, which was so exciting to see. We ultimately cast 35 students in the show. There was so much talent, enthusiasm, and courage displayed throughout the audition process, and I was incredibly proud of every student who stepped outside of their comfort zone and gave it a try.
2. Where did the idea for this show come from?
Beauty and the Beast Jr. has always been a special show to me because I actually performed in it when I was in middle school. When it came time to choose our next production, though, I also wanted our students to have a voice in the decision. At the end of last year, I gave my theatre students an interest survey to get their input on the types of shows they would be excited to perform. Taking their feedback into consideration, along with my own connection to the show, Beauty and the Beast Jr. felt like a great fit for our students and our program.
3. Besides the actors, are there other ways that students can be involved in this production?
Absolutely! One of the things we want students to understand is that theatre is about so much more than the people you see on stage. Students also have the opportunity to sign up for our tech crew, where they can help with the behind-the-scenes aspects of the production. We are also offering a backstage choir for students who love to sing and want to be part of the musical without having an acting role. These opportunities allow even more students to discover where their talents and interests fit within theatre.
4. Are there some timetables you're looking at for its debut on stage?
Our production of Beauty and the Beast Jr. will take the stage on Wednesday, January 20, at 6:00 p.m. Tickets will be $3 per person. Our students have already begun rehearsing, and we will continue working throughout the fall and into January to prepare for the performance.
5. How does it benefit elementary-age students to have an opportunity like this to perform on the big stage?
The benefits go far beyond learning lines, songs, and choreography. Theatre gives elementary-age students an opportunity to build confidence, develop communication skills, collaborate with students outside of their regular classrooms, and learn what it means to be part of a team working toward one shared goal. Performing on a big stage also gives students an experience they may not otherwise have at this age. For some of our students, simply auditioning in front of others is a huge accomplishment. Then, over the course of several months, we get to watch them grow into students who are willing to walk onto a stage in front of an audience and perform. It also teaches responsibility and perseverance. Students learn that being part of a production means showing up prepared, practicing at home, supporting their castmates, accepting feedback, and continuing to work even when something is challenging. Whether a student eventually pursues theatre or never steps on another stage after elementary school, those are skills and experiences that can stay with them for years to come.
Interview with William Whitmire (5th Grade- Lefou)
1. What made you want to audition for Beauty and the Beast Jr., and how did you feel when you found out you were cast?
“Last year Shrek Jr. was very fun. When I saw that I was casted I was pretty happy.”
2. Tell us about the character you are playing. What do you like most about your role?
“The character I am playing is Lefou. He is Gaston’s dimwitted sidekick. My favorite part about my character is singing Gaston.”
3. Why should students do theatre?
“Students should do theatre to practice singing and they have a chance to be on stage. It helps you during the regular school day to help you stay focused.”
Interview with Kingston Sargeant (5th Grade- Beast)
1. What made you want to audition for Beauty and the Beast Jr., and how did you feel when you found out you were cast?
“My mom encouraged me to act after doing Shrek Jr. last year. She thought it would be a good opportunity for me to do it again before going to middle school. I was super excited, and when I saw that I was casted as Beast I thought that it was amazing that I got to be the male leading role one more time before going to middle school.”
2. Tell us about the character you are playing. What do you like most about your role?
“I am playing Beast. One thing I like about this character is that he is grumpy, and it reminds me a lot of my older brother.”
3. Why should students do theatre?
“Students should do theatre because it helps you get out of your comfort zone and try new things. Like last year in Shrek Jr. I felt very encouraged. You should always try something out before you decide you do not like it.”
Interview with Sabrina Caminiti (5th Grade- Mrs. Potts)
1. What made you want to audition for Beauty and the Beast Jr., and how did you feel when you found out you were cast?
“I enjoy singing and performing. I was super excited that I get to be a main character."
2. Tell us about the character you are playing. What do you like most about your role?
“Potts is like a mother to everyone. I like that I get to be in a teapot position for most of the show.”
3. Why should students do theatre?
“Students should do theatre because its really fun and you gain courage and confidence.”