AMHERST – It’s cats, not Cats.
Spring Street Academy’s spring theatre production is a musical featuring felines, but it’s The Aristocats Kids, not Andrew Lloyd Weber’s famed production.
“I always like to do Disney shows,” said Ruth Nichols, teacher and show director. The kids know the material and relate to it, she said.
Nichols said the production will have top-notch sound, lighting and sets. The audience should come to the show prepared to be “really entertained.”
The curtain rises May 24, with shows the 25th and 26th as well. Tickets are $5.
“We held auditions the first, second and third of February,” said Charlene Moore, a substitute teacher who is also the stage manager.
“I love the show. It’s so cute,” she said, citing catchy songs and strong performances from students.
Practices are being held every day after school for half an hour to an hour. Different roles and parts of the show are rehearsed different days.
Nichols said co-ordinating rehearsals for the more than 100 students in the cast is the toughest part of putting on the show. Kids have other commitments, and all of them depend on their parents to pick them up.
Jenna Stevens is a student cast member. The material appeals to her.
“I like cats,” she said.
Being in the show has given her an opportunity to learn new things.
“…How to dance, how to be a cat…,” said Stevens. The student is most looking forward to dancing on opening night.
esparling@amherstdaily.com
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