The timeless story of the Sleeping Beauty fairytale will unfold in two public performances to be held at Plum Point Elementary School on Thursday, May 1 and Friday, May 2. The school is located at 1245 Plum Point Road in Huntingtown; doors will open at 6:30; the show is at 7 p.m. and you will have the opportunity to meet the characters at 8 p.m. (and definitely you will want to stay to meet this fine cast in person). The Director believes that elementary school programs should be free to everyone; thus, no tickets will be sold.
I attended a dress rehearsal on April 30 and was delighted to find that the approximately 50 students who were involved in the production were so well-prepared for their roles. Under the skilled direction of teacher Shannyn Petersen, the student ensemble evidenced theatrical proficiency usually seen in far more experienced performers.
After Director’s notes were given, the sound system checked and re-checked, and last-minute costume changes were made, it was finally show time.
The student actors were admirably attentive throughout these preparations while seated to the left and right sides of the proscenium stage on risers situated on the auditorium’s floor. The stage was accessed easily by a separate set of risers on the floor leading to center stage.
If you’ve ever seen the Disney cartoon movie Sleeping Beauty made in the 60’s, you will be happy to know that the costumes are just as you remember them – notably those of the 3 Fairy Godmothers (Flora, Fauna, and Merryweather in charming pastels with hoop skirts and pointy hats), the royal families (especially the handsomely costumed grown-up Prince) and Maleficent’s black horns, royal scepter and flowing cape.
The children sing to the accompaniment of a recorded orchestral soundtrack (you may hear frequent references to Beethoven’s 5th Symphony in the score!). The school is enjoying the brand-new sound system which is operated with great expertise by Nic Petersen, husband of the Director; together, they make a first-rate team for this production.
The soundtrack begins with the orchestra “tuning up” and then the action opens on “Hail to Princess Aurora” as the kingdom rejoices at the birth of the baby. Four guards in striking red costumes (Jacob Krell, Rex Railey, Hannah Rocks and Julianne Alexy) line the stage with precision. Entrances are made by King Stefan (Kurt Miller) and Queen Stefani (Olyvia Krisko) straight down the auditorium’s center
