Bullard Brook Hill

The students from the Middle School drama and choir classes came together to make Brook Hill history when they performed Disney’s Aladdin Jr., the first ever Brook Hill Middle School musical.

On the evenings of February 21 and 22 the students performed the play featuring characters that were made popular by the very successful animated feature film.

Aladdin was played by eighth grader Grant Troxell and princess Jasmine was portrayed by Kate Googins, also an eighth grader.

The cast also featured Daniel Dobbs, 8, as the Sultan, Aaron Stevens, 8, as the genie and Alex Dean, 8, as the evil Jafar. Mackenzie Jenkins, 7, played the talking parrot Iago and Jake Nash, 8, was the bumbling palace guard Razoul.

The other members of the drama class created roles as narrators and townspeople.

The production also featured the 7-8 grade choir under the direction of Mrs. Patti Eden.

The beautiful costumes were designed by Mrs. Rebecca Ballard, assisted by Brook Hill moms Nancy Larson, Anne Townley and Carol Schuler.

The students also had the privilege of working with some wonderful sets that were constructed just for the show and brilliantly painted by Brook Hill mom and graphic artist, Mrs. Judy Seamands.

Mr. Ballard said, “Our goal in producing a middle school musical was to expose students to the process of play production in an educational setting that also afforded them the opportunity to perform before a live audience.”

Every student in the middle school drama class of 26 kids was cast in the play.

According to director, Mr. Ballard, some of the kids wanted larger parts while others expressed a desire to start with something smaller. But a show like Aladdin has something for everyone. “I think the kids have learned a lot and most have really enjoyed the experience. Some of the kids were a bit nervous but we learned how to channel that nervousness into a performance that we are proud of,” said the director.

Ballard also pointed out that immediately following the performance each evening he hosted a “talk-back” session between the audience and cast members. Patrons were allowed to ask the young cast members about their experiences both during the preparation for the show and the performances.

The next drama production to be held at The Brook Hill School will be The King and I on May 1, 2, and 3. Stunning hand made costumes are already being made specifically for this musical.

(-Courtesy Photo)