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DIRECTOR'S NOTES

I came across this opportunity with Disney by accident. It was in my first year at Manchester I learned of the Disney Musical in Schools program which was offered through Seattle Theatre Group. I recall watching the informational video about the program and thinking how lucky those schools were to have that opportunity. At the time, it wasn't a possibility for our school because this program is designed for Title 1 schools. As soon as I discovered that our principal, Rachelle Byrd, had achieved the monumental task of making our school a Title 1 school, I knew I needed to pursue this program so our students could have the oopportunity to participate in a program like this. 

One of my goals as a music teacher is to provide every student with the opportunity to perform. Performing is certainly not for every individual. However, for some individuals, it is everything. I believe, only by having the opportunity to perform, can an individual truly discover if the performing life is for them.  

We are so blessed to have been chosen to be a part of this program. Thanks to STG and Disney, there are so many opportunities these students will get to experience this year.

This school year we had the opportunity to go to the Broadway production of The Lion King, at no cost to our school. Disney granted our program $1000 to be spent on this year's musical, allowing us to have costumes for all 70 participants. Also, these students will have the opportunity to perform one of the songs from The Lion King Kids on stage at the Paramount Theater, transportation provided by Disney and STG. 

These 3rd, 4th and 5th grade students have spent many hours in long, arduous rehearsals preparing for tonight. It makes our hearts happy that these students have had an opportunity to learn and grow with their talents in singing a foreign language, dancing to several songs and acting. Tonight our students will finally get a chance to show you.

The vision of a great perfomance could not have been carried out without our brilliant volunteer team of teachers and parents. Their commitment and willingness to give up their time, in excess of 4 hours per week for 17 weeks, is such a caring gift for these students. Every one of those names you see on the first page gave countless hours in rehearsals and behind the scenes. So, tonight we applaud the amazing students performance, but we also applause this outstanding and generous team. 

I also want to thank you for coming this evening to support our musical program. All the proceeds we will receive from concessions and ticket sales will go toward our program, so we can continue helping children learn and grow through the arts. 

Grateful to teach your students,

~Moira Hoisington