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SHERMAN OAKS, LOS ANGELES () — The magic of Disney has been echoing through Chandler Elementary School lately.
Twice a week, the Chandler Cheetahs come together for theater rehearsals ahead of their big production this spring: Disney’s “The Lion King KIDS.”
“I love this,” third grader Tyler Alexander said. “The school hasn’t really done this before, so I love that they’re trying new things.”
Chandler Elementary is one of the first schools in the U.S. to join a new program helping public elementary schools stage their own Disney musical.
“I’m proud of that I memorized all of my parts in the play,” fourth grader Xareny Acosta said.
Through Disney Musicals in Schools’ Stage Connect, educators are given free resources like show scripts, music tracks and training that give them the confidence they need to produce a school musical.
“Every single step of the production process is handled from pre-production, all the way to tech night and show night,” said Wendy Mumolo, first grade teacher and director of Chandler’s production.
“It’s really for people that have never put on a show before and need that guidance on how to do it and don’t know where to start.”
We watched as Mumolo led the Cheetahs through vocal and breathing exercises, before springing right into the music and majesty of this story, straight from Pride Rock.
“This has been something that’s been a passion project for me for years and years,” Mumolo said. “I’m just so grateful that I finally have a crew of teammates that were willing to take on such an undertaking with me, because it’s, you know, it’s a lot of work, and it’s a passion project, you have to love it.”
So far, the students are loving it, with many telling us this production is helping them build their confidence.
“I’m a better speaker in front of people, and I’ve made new friends, so yeah, I would say it’s a pretty good opportunity,” Alexander said.
Chandler’s teachers have also felt a difference, too.
“I see the kids, and I have seen growth,” first grade teacher Marcia Rozario said. “Like I’ve told her before, they’re coming out of their shell and they’re experiencing new things and having another creative outlet.”
“I’m excited to like, make the costumes and stuff, and I’m also excited for my parents to see my first play,” fourth grader Caroline Waescag said.
All public elementary schools are eligible to apply from now until March 9. Head to disneymusicalsinschools.com/stageconnect to apply.
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