PHOTOS: Stratford Students Stage Music Man Jr.

There might be “Trouble in River City” but the fifth-graders in Stratford School’s performance of “The Music Man Jr.” proved that when it comes to singing, acting, dancing, and managing a stage performance, all is well in Garden City.

The entire class of 167 fifth-graders made up the cast and crew that wowed their audiences in morning and evening performances on March 29 and 30. The students began working on this project in January under the incomparable direction of their music teacher, Mrs. Meredith Lavin. Mrs. Lavin was able to present a performance that most professional productions would envy with the help of teachers, parents, and members of the community.

Mrs. Tavernese, from Broadway Bound, offered her dance expertise to create energetic, show-stopping numbers. Art teacher, Mr. George Lucas, helped the artists of the fifth grade create the stunning backdrop. Mr. Madden directed the impeccable stage crew and Mr. Pollitt helped with all of the technical aspects of the show. Mrs. Dougherty worked with the dancers and Mrs. Madden assisted with directing. Miss Ciquera and Mrs. Dowden worked backstage, and Mrs. Hoey, Mr. Messier, Mrs. DeCicco and Mrs. DiMartino helped the students get ready for their numbers. Many parents pitched in and showed their creative side by helping on various committees.

Mrs. Lavin was very proud of this production and said, “For me the fifth grade play is a wonderful culmination of the students’ musical experience at Stratford School. It’s a wonderful way for new friendships to form and for students to come together to create a dynamic production. I hope that in future years students will look back on the play as a special memory of their time here at Stratford School.”

The principal of Stratford, Mrs. Eileen Vota, also echoed these same sentiments, “The Stratford play is the one that our children look forward to since their first visit in first grade. From this moment, the excitement begins after having many opportunities to be in the audience and finally, in fifth grade, the children become a part of the play creating lifetime memories.”

The pride that the fifth-graders felt in putting on an incredible show was evident on their smiling faces at the end of each brilliant performance. As one fifth-grader said, “It was an adventure! You got to do something that you have never done before, and do it with all of your friends.”

Congratulations to the students and staff of Stratford School’s fifth grade class! The Garden City community gives you a “76 Trombone” salute for all of your hard work!

-Deanna O'Connor

Click through the gallery above to see photos from the production.