It’s time to dim the lights and set the scene as the Stillwater Elementary Drama Club gears up for their upcoming production of “The Grunch: A New Children’s Musical.” Composed of fourth and fifth grade students, the club has dedicated countless hours to preparing for the show, which will open on Friday, Jan. 24 at 7 p.m. in the Stillwater High School auditorium.
Directed by Stillwater Elementary music teacher Rachael O’Neill and third grade teacher Amy Britt-Hefner, “The Grunch” tells the story of Ruby Grunch, a grumpy sixth grader who often feels like an outsider. As excitement for the annual school musical grows, Ruby devises the perfect plan to ruin it for everyone; she’ll steal the sets, costumes and lights the night before the big show. Will her grand scheme be a success or will the spirit of the theatre prevail? Follow Ruby’s adventure filled with lively musical performances as her mischievous plot unfolds.
“This year, the Stillwater Elementary Drama Club is tackling one of our biggest productions yet, ‘The Grunch: A New Children’s Musical’ by Beat by Beat Press,” Ms. O’Neill said. “Working on this show has been incredibly fun and exciting, with 49 elementary students participating.”
“They’ve put so much effort into practicing their singing, dancing, and acting and can’t wait to perform for everyone. I’m incredibly proud of them and all of their hard work,” Ms. O’Neill said, beaming with pride.
In addition to the cast, “The Grunch” is supported by a dynamic crew of students and staff from the Stillwater Central School District. Production assistants include Stillwater High School students Madelyn Daubney (Class of 2028), Sydney Martin (Class of 2025), Tayler Mondoux (Class of 2029) and Elizabeth Tai (Class of 2028). Tai is also a choreographer, with musical direction by Ms. O’Neill. Music teacher Patrick Foxton will provide lights and sound with support from students Ali Lyon (Class of 2026), Lily Scott (Class of 2028) and Gianna Sheehan (Class of 2028). Costumes are styled by Taryn Putney, Eva Putney, Elizabeth Eggelston and Madison Eggelston, while Mr. Foxton and the high school stagecraft class constructed the set.
“Our fourth and fifth grade students can’t wait to perform for everyone,” Ms. O’Neill said. “The production will entertain audiences of all ages while showcasing the value and power of kindness.”
“The Grunch: A New Children’s Musical” promises fun for the whole family and can be seen on Friday, Jan. 24 at 7 p.m. or Saturday, Jan. 25 at 2 p.m. in the Stillwater High School auditorium. Tickets are $5 per person or $20 per family, with cash being the only acceptable form of payment. Don’t miss the opportunity to see the Stillwater Elementary Drama Club sing, dance and captivate the audience as they bring Ruby’s tale to life.
*Note: Stillwater Elementary has been given permission by Beat by Beat Productions to perform this show and use its material for the purposes of a school drama production.