Students Tackle Multiple Musicals

Two musicals will give students from second grade through high school a chance to learn about theater by getting on stage this spring.

Independent Day School held auditions on Jan. 10 for "How to Eat Like a Child" and the student version of "A Chorus Line." The shows are part of the private school's Community School of the Arts, and aspiring actors do not have to attend Independent Day School to participate.

Tryouts for "How to Eat Like a Child" were for children in second through seventh grade, and "A Chorus Line" is for students in eighth through 12th grade. Both took place at the Carrollwood-based school.

Students read from scripts and sang.

The Community School of the Arts started with a music focus four years ago, offering group and private lessons. It has since expanded to include fee-based classes on ceramics, dance and drama, as well as continuing vocal and instrumental lessons. About 200 children from across Hillsborough County and parts of Pasco are enrolled in classes.

Jennifer Barnekow, a director with New Tampa Players, will direct "How to Eat Like a Child." Independent Day School drama teacher Seth Travaglino is handling "A Chorus Line."

Both are ensemble plays with several meaty parts. "A Chorus Line" chronicles actors trying out for roles, and the production has been adapted to make it appropriate for students. "How to Eat Like a Child" is a series of vignettes on ways to act like a kid - tormenting your sister, begging for a puppy or faking sick to stay home from school.

Though less well-known than "A Chorus Line," the show is something parents and children relate to, Barnekow said.

"It's very witty; it's cute," she said. "It really hits home."

Weekly rehearsals will give students an understanding of musical basics, moving on stage and character development. Working on a show can also help develop teambuilding and interpersonal skills and boost self confidence, Barnekow said.