By Nance Ebert, Contributing Writer
Northborough – The Marion E. Zeh School Drama Club presented Disney’s “The Jungle Book Kids” to students, teachers, friends and family March 5 and 6 with a morning and evening performance on both days.
The 30-minute show was a wonderfully entertaining adaptation of Disney’s version of “The Jungle Book.” Anyone who signed up to be a part of the show was automatically in the show and auditions were held for some of the specific roles. Because 70 students were involved, there were two casts formed so that one would perform one day at both shows and the other cast would perform on the next day for both shows. There were two of every main character: two Mowglis, two Baloos, two Kaas, etc.
“We had a few shows that we were considering, but this one just felt right,” explained Music Director Allyn Phelps. “We have all been working really hard, shuffling schedules and meeting after school for rehearsals. The show is viewed as a united thing, a collaboration, as everyone that is involved plays a role in the show.”
Jennifer Ward, first-grade teacher, was the co-director and Mary Anne Bryant and Gina Cooper were assistants. There were many volunteers with the costumes, scenery, the pit band and more. Phelps gave a big thank you to Principal Susan Whitten for all of her support.
The kids really enjoyed participating.
“Drama was a great experience,” said fifth-grader Matt Curley. “I thought it was very enjoyable to work with everyone. It was fun for my last year at Zeh.”
Added fifth-grader Aislin Campbell: “My favorite scene ? is the monkey’s dance. It’s so awesome! I love the costumes! I also love my part. Kaa is such an epic part to play.”
Third-grader Savannah Staples said she really liked drama club. “I was Kaa the Snake. We all had awesome costumes,” she said. “A bunch of my friends were in it, too. We had so much fun.”
In May, there will be a chorus and band festival called the “Great East Music Festival” Friday, May 29, featuring about a dozen schools.
“We will prepare choral and band music and perform it in front of judges,” Phelps said. “Last year, the band and chorus got a gold. It’s an individual competition. Once we finish, the students will be going to Canobie Lake Park in the afternoon.”
Photos/Nance Ebert