White County Middle School Drama teacher Lindsey Brackett realizes first hand the camaraderie shared between those who love theatre. Twenty-four hours before opening night of Mary Poppins, which will be performed at the White County Performing Arts Center,
Brackett received the call directors do not want to receive, “One of my lead performers is sick with the stomach flu, and we do not have understudies.”
Jerome Kukurugya, an 8th grader who plays the part of George Banks, the father to Jane and Michael Banks (Lena Grindle and Jasper Montgomery), could not play the role opening night, Thursday, March 20 and possibly other nights. On the 20th, there are 3 performances because 2 are for the school.
“I reached out to Edwin Polangco-Kenney, a White County High School freshman,” Brackett explained. “He was confident and happy to do it.”
Polangco-Kenney had to learn the part in less than 24 hours along with the music. “And he has done an amazing job!” Brackett confirmed.
The production is March 20 and 21 at 7 p.m. and March 22 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. The musical follows the whimsical adventures of Mary Poppins (Olivia Latty), a magical nanny who arrives to care for the Banks children in London. With her charming and mysterious persona, she uses her unique abilities to bring joy, discipline, and life lessons to the Banks family.
The musical is known for its memorable songs like “A Spoonful of Sugar” and “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious,” which have become classics. Its combination of dazzling choreography, imaginative set designs, and heartwarming themes of family and love has made it a timeless show that continues to delight audiences around the world.
Because the students performing are in Middle School, the production is around one hour but worthy of your time. These talented students give their all.
“I have been overwhelmed with the support that these theatre students extend. With Jerome getting sick and Jessi Cook (White County High School Drama teacher) out on maternity leave, the High School Theatre Department has stepped up to help us tremendously,” Brackett added.
It is not surprising to her, though, to see the love and respect the students have for one another. A key example is White County High School senior Grace Reyes, who played the part of Maria in the recent production of The Sound of Music.
Reyes and her grandparents lost all of their belongings in a house fire on Friday, March 14. The White County Theatre Department Booster Club will accept donations at the Mary Poppins production.
Brackett remarked that this production is very special. “Students aren’t just able to learn about theatre or working together, but they are seeing firsthand what community coming together is all about.” This shows on stage and is felt by all who come to see it.
Support the White County Middle Schoolers in their production of Mary Poppins. To purchase tickets, visit the White County Middle School Theatre website.
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A timeless classic presented by White County High School’s Theatre Department
