Annie!

McCornack Elementary

Our project is to produce a Broadway-style production of "Annie." We would like to have three evening performances on May 5th, 6th and 7th, 2005. We would like the show to include a large dramatic cast. The lead parts would mainly be filled with 5th graders. However, this particular show can accommodate kids from 2nd - 5th grades. We plan to have a 3rd, 4th and 5th grade choir to support the musical directed by our music teacher. There would also be a team of students trained to work on the technical aspects of the production including running the lights, sound and stage crew. All 5th grade teachers would assist with this production as well as other staff, parents and community members.

Why is this project important?

The musical involves lots of children - grades 2 - 5. Many skills are taught such as public speaking, music appreciation, dramatics, dance, technical tasks such as running a light and sound board, etc. Also a great deal of self-esteem, confidence building, school spirit and personal pride are developed among the cast and crew members. There will be strong family and community involvement. Some community members will be asked to assist with set construction, costume construction, set design and choreography assistance. This project promotes excellent public relations within our school community. Memories are developed that will last a lifetime for all involved!

Who and how many will be served?

An estimated number of about 125 children - mainly from the 3rd, 4th and 5th grades with a few joining from the 2nd grade.
 

How will you evaluate the success of this project?

The final evaluation will be in the quality of the final musical performances. However, ongoing evaluations will occur throughout the rehearsal process as the 3rd, 4th and 5th grade choir perfect their singing, actors strengthen their dramatic skills, dancers improve their movements, technicians comprehend their duties on lights, sound and stage, etc. Self-esteem is boosted as children practice and gain confidence within themselves as well as supporting others.

Does this proposal build upon existing programs at your school?

Yes. We have a part-time music teacher at our building that will support the choral piece of this production as part of her music curriculum. The 5th grade teaching team will teach to state standards in the areas of The Arts and Public Speaking by using the musical as a vehicle to enhance and enrich student skills.

Our school also has a commitment to reach out into our neighborhood and community in a positive way. Therefore, we enjoy taking part of our cast to local senior centers and performing shortened musical versions for them. In the past, this has been a very touching and rewarding experience for allconcerned!

How will the funds be spent?

Royalty fee; music books and script rental fee; postage fee for rental items; costume budget; paint and supplies budget for set design; lights and replacement bulbs.

We are very appreciative of parent and community support in past productions who are willing to provide free labor regarding set design and construction, sewing costumes, and painting sets.

We save most of our costumes, sets, and construction materials so that they may be used in future production