For Zeke, this Autumn has been filled, once again, with Christian Youth Theater. He took a stage combat and stunts class which he loved. We all gasped during the showcase when he sent a broken board flying to the ceiling. He auditioned for the Junie B Jones production by singing “Putting on the Ritz.” Much to our surprise and delight, he was cast as Junie B’s friend Herb. He learned lines and harmonies and dances over the course of nine weeks on Friday nights and Saturdays.
The entire cast was between the ages of 8 – 14. The director set high expectations for them and they stepped up to the challenge – even moving the set pieces throughout the show. Zeke loved the rehearsals and anytime the cast met to skate, do a radio promo, or eat pancakes. He just loved being with this group of kids. They were all very encouraging and supportive of one another throughout.
My favorite part of the show was when Zeke sang the duet, “You can be my friend,” with Junie B. aka Belle. It was so sweet and showcased their underlying character trait of kindness. Every time I saw the scene, it always made me smile. I also loved the creepy scene where Junie B realizes she needs glasses. Being in one bizarre scene each play is becoming a strange pattern for Zeke.
Gabe found the costume transformation of Chasqui, complete with mustache, into Mr Scary highly amusing. Gabe even bought a button in support. The tap dancing lunchroom scene, the slow mo chest bump, the bus driver, and the physical comedy of Sheldon aka Craig all brought smiles and laughs. Junie B (Belle) was terrific in all shows.
Zeke got to stand in the line to give autographs. (I found this hilarious, and the line was long for each performance.) The bio board was terrific with pictures of the performers presently and back in first grade. Zeke’s favorite performances were the ones they did for the second graders of Stafford County Public Schools. When Junie B said she was most likely going to marry Herb some day, the second grader’s reacted with a loud “Eeew!” which really made Zeke laugh.
(Photos courtesy of Amber Trementozzi CYT photographer and friend to all. She does a great job at the shows.)
The behind the scenes photos aren’t quite the same quality, but they make me smile.
