By JENNA RHUDE
The Progress
J.L. Bowler Elementary School in Bunkerville has done it again! The multi-purpose room at the school was filled with smiling faces last week as the school performed “Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka Kids.” The play was presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International.
Earlier in the school year, the elementary students tried out for different parts and rehearsals began. The school was amazed at the turnout from the kids. They were able to have two young actors play roles for each main character on different performances.
Almost 80 students made up the production and performance crew. The kids were delightful and the production was purely entertaining.
The students were very well rehearsed. Each of the students knew their mark, songs and speaking parts. It was a walk that inspired “pure imagination”. Every player did a wonderful job.
J.L. Bowler Principal Chris Jenkins applauded the students and staff as well as the parents for the 16 weeks of practice that went into the production.
Jenkins commended the staff, parents and students for all the time and effort spent making the play a success.
There were three public performances and all played to full audiences of enthusiastic parents and community members.
Audience members were returned to childhood by songs such as “The Candy Man” and “Pure Imagination”. Of course there were also the entertaining Oompa Loompas.
This year’s play was dedicated to Chuck Graus who passed away recently.
“He was a great supporter of our Disney Musicals In School programs,” said Jenkins. “He will be missed and always remembered!”
