About a quarter of Moody middle school is in this year’s spring musical production, a show chosen because of its water-based theme.
A total of 74 students in grades 6 to 8 at the School of the Arts will present the Disney classic The Little Mermaid Jr., from April 19 to 21.
Director Jane Ono, who also stitched most of the costumes, designed the sets and choreographed the dance steps, said students were invited to the open call in January to try out for one — or more — of the characters.
And Payton Dembicki was picked for the starring role because of the Grade 8 talent’s exceptional singing and acting skills, Ono said.
The storyline revolves around the mermaid princess who makes a deal with a sea witch in order to meet a human prince on land.
Ono said the school is currently studying about water and working with artists-in-residence to create marine projects (Moody is also split into pods with names based on the elements: earth, fire, water and wind).
Ono gave kudos to the kids and staff for pulling off the production. Teacher Michelle Reichert provided musical direction while Shelley Eglestad, Chris Magnusson and Caroline Parker as well as SFU student teacher Caitlyn Inkster offered assistance at rehearsals and after school.
Disney shows have been popular in School District 43 this year, with both Archbishop Carney and Gleneagle secondaries producing Beauty and the Beast.
• Tickets for The Little Mermaid Jr. are $8/$4 and available at the door on show night at 7 p.m. They can also be bought in advance through the school (3115 St. Johns St.). Call 604-461-7384.
