Students
Tackle Multiple Musicals
By
COURTNEY CAIRNS PASTOR
cpastor@tampatrib.com
Published: January 21, 2009
CARROLLWOOD - Two musicals will give students from second grade
through high school a chance to learn about theater by getting on
stage this spring.
Independent Day School held auditions on Jan. 10 for "How to
Eat Like a Child" and the student version of "A Chorus
Line." The shows are part of the private school's Community
School of the Arts, and aspiring actors do not have to attend Independent
Day School to participate.
Tryouts for "How to Eat Like a Child" were for children
in second through seventh grade, and "A Chorus Line" is
for students in eighth through 12th grade. Both took place at the
Carrollwood-based school.
Students read from scripts and sang.
The Community School of the Arts started with a music focus four
years ago, offering group and private lessons. It has since expanded
to include fee-based classes on ceramics, dance and drama, as well
as continuing vocal and instrumental lessons. About 200 children
from across Hillsborough County and parts of Pasco are enrolled
in classes.
Jennifer Barnekow, a director with New Tampa Players, will direct
"How to Eat Like a Child." Independent Day School drama
teacher Seth Travaglino is handling "A Chorus Line."
Both are ensemble plays with several meaty parts. "A Chorus
Line" chronicles actors trying out for roles, and the production
has been adapted to make it appropriate for students. "How
to Eat Like a Child" is a series of vignettes on ways to act
like a kid - tormenting your sister, begging for a puppy or faking
sick to stay home from school.
Though less well-known than "A Chorus Line," the show
is something parents and children relate to, Barnekow said.
"It's very witty; it's cute," she said. "It really
hits home."
Weekly rehearsals will give students an understanding of musical
basics, moving on stage and character development. Working on a
show can also help develop teambuilding and interpersonal skills
and boost self confidence, Barnekow said.
Reporter Courtney Cairns Pastor can be reached at (813) 865-1503.
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