The Minnetonka School District is offering a new arts experience for its elementary students.
“This is a huge undertaking for us” says Trent Boyum, artistic director of the new project. “Our district is very dedicated to the arts, and wanted to create a new opportunity for elementary students. In order to include a large number of students we decided to produce a stage musical at each school. We’ve found a really new and innovative way to involve all of our students interested in musical theatre.”
The district will produce the same musical, Disney’s “101 Dalmatians,” at all six of its elementary schools. Stage directors have been hired to head up each individual show. To keep costs low, each cast will share the same sets, costumes, props, lights and sound. Many parent volunteers have pulled together to support a professional team of designers in creating the “look” of the show.
“This is more than a simple elementary school pageant,” says Boyum. “It will be a really big and professionally produced production, a great learning experience for our kids, and a wonderful chance for families to celebrate the arts in our elementary schools.”
The first production will open on February 11 at Excelsior Elementary School with performances at 1 and 5pm, and continue for six weeks through March 24. Performances are open to the public.
Tickets: All seats $10
Produced by: the Minnetonka School District
Artistic Director: Trent Boyum
Location: Excelsior Elementary School Theatre, 441 Oak St., Excelsior
Info and tickets at minnetonkatheatre.com
Information courtesy of Krista Hoitomt
