Autrey Mill Middle School Presents “Singin’ in the Rain, Jr."

Mark your calendar, get your tickets ($10), and come to Autrey Mill Middle School (AMMS) at 7PM on April 26 and 27, 2019, to enjoy a lighthearted and family-friendly musical presented by a group of dedicated and talented students, and, to support the passionate kids and the school!

The musical, Singin' in the Rain JR,. is a lovingly adaptation of the award-winning 1952 hit, Singin’ in the Rain, dubbed as the "Greatest Movie Musical of All Time". The musical-romantic comedy has all the makings of a Tinseltown tabloid headline — the starlet, the leading man and a love affair. Don Lockwood (by Cole Hall, 7th grade) and Lina Lamont (by Olivia Courtney, 7th grade) are a glamorous couple on the screen during the silent-film era of Hollywood, but things aren't always as they appeared behind the screen. Meanwhile, the transition to “talking pictures” might be the end of the self-absorbed Lina's career because of her squeaky voice. With the help of Don’s best friend, Cosmo Brown (by Ugo Anyanwutaku, 8th grade) and a talented young singer Kathy Selden (by Vyjayanthi Burma, 8th grade), the story takes expected turns …..

To prepare for this performance, over 40 AMMS students from three grades have been hard at work since January this year. Under the direction of Ms. Shelly McCook (AMMS Drama Director), music direction of Ms. Vanessa Edwards (AMMS Chorus Director), and assistance of Ms. Michelle Hains, the students learned the songs, practiced their dances, memorized their lines, and rehearsed their scenes. In addition, the teachers, students and parents have been doing everything else needed to put together a stage production, such as building sets, painting scenery, collecting costumes, making props, designing flyers, selling tickets, promoting the event, preparing concession stands, and many other activities.

Dedicated students and teachers have been staying after school on most afternoons, and sometimes into the evenings and during weekends, to work on the musical. The demanding schedule and activities showcase the aspiration and diligence from the students and teachers, as well as strong supports from families. As expressed by Ms. McCook, the Musical’s Director, “My favorite part is that it’s a great opportunity to bring the community together. The student performers and crews are working closely as a group; all are engaged and problem-solving. The parents volunteer after hours to build set and props, and take care of most logistics. All of us are working together to make this gift for the community.”

Students have taken on this experience to develop new passions and build friendships. "The musical is very exciting with lots of singing and dancing. With the help of our teachers, we are getting better every second along the way. Working with the whole cast is an awesome experience and we have a great ensemble." Says Ugo Anyanwutaku (8th grade), president of the Junior Thespian Troupe who will compete at the International Thespian Conference at the University of Nebraska in June, after receiving a Superior rating at the regional Jr. Thespian Conference in February.

Echoing that sentiment is 7th grader Emanuel Smith, a crew member for the musical and a cast member in last year’s show, "I really like it because I get to do different fun things, like moving a trolley or a bench during the show, and get to work with my friends."

The opportunities are not limited to the older students, but also include many new middle-schoolers. Kaidon Morgan (6th grade) who plays several minor roles also loves this experience, "It has been very fun! We get to make new friends. Everyone enjoys working together, learning the songs and dances, and helping each other.”

Tickets are $10 each and can be purchased online at http://www.autreymillchorus.com/sitr-jr-tickets.html. Tickets are also on sale in the front rotunda of the school (4110 Old Alabama Rd, Johns Creek) 7:40 AM - 8:40 AM, from April 15th to 26th, and at the door before each show on April 26th and 27th.

Please come to enjoy a humorous show, and more importantly, to cheer on the aspiring kids among whom future stars may be rising!