Lake County Gazette

A production of the Metropolitan Arts Academy Spring Musical is coming to the big stage for the first time. Moana Jr. will be performed on April 9, 10, and 11 at 6 p.m. at the Joanna Ramsey Theatre. Tickets are now on sale, with over 900 already sold.

The decision to move the student production to the high school theatre aims to share the theatrical performance with a wider audience and showcase the talents of the Academy’s K-8 students.

“We are creating an affordable and engaging family event that we hope will become an annual tradition,” said Principal Claudette Trujillo. “The themes of the play are about leadership, courage, and the strength of community, which we try to instill in our students. ”

For both audience and performers, it is also a major upgrade in venue. “The stage is bigger, the lights are better and the acoustics are superior,” said Trujillo. In addition to acting, MAT students will manage technical aspects of the show including ushers, microphones, lights, curtains, and props.

“When the kids first walked out on stage and saw where they would be performing, they were just blown away,” added Trujillo.

Moana Jr. is a musical adaptation of Disney's 2016 animated film. It tells the story of Moana, a strong-willed girl who sails across the Pacific Ocean to save her village and learn about her unique heritage.