For the past several years, children in grades 4- 8 of St Anastasia School have the opportunity to be a part of the musical production.  Auditions are held, but every student interested gets a part in the play.  These have been extraordinary events that have become a part of the curriculum of St. Anastasia.  The school, parish and community look forward to this annual event, which develops St. Anastasia’s untapped talent.

The director and producers have listened to numerous stories from children and parents of how participating in the play has changed their lives for the better.  One child relayed the story of writing her high school entrance exam letter about the part she had in the plays. She spoke of the confidence it gave her and believing positively in herself.

Other children that start off hiding in the back with no expression other than looking like a “deer in the headlights”, come show time they are smiling and moving with confidence and grace.  I do believe this opportunity, especially for kids that are shy really builds confidence and self esteem and gives them an opportunity to shine.

The play is much more than a stage production:  it brings the students together in a way unique to any classroom or sporting experience.  Under the umbrella of a “school musical”, it is also a “confidence builder”, a “speech program”, and an “art appreciation class” at its best.  because every year the show is different and every year the children in grades 4-8 are different, it is, in fact a new production every year.

St Anastasia has produced the following shows over the last several years:  Bye-bye Birdie, Fiddler on the Roof, Sound of Music, Grease, Oklahoma, Into the Woods and Godspell.

Thsi year’s production is Guys and Dolls, Jr. So get ready!  The dedicated mission band will beat its drum. The flamboyant dancers will kick up their heels. And the slick, high-rolling gamblers will sing “Luck be a Lady.”  Come and hear that and other favorites such as the lovely duet, “I’ve Never Been in Love Before,” and the topsy-turvy singing testimony, “Sit Down, You’re Rockin’ the Boat.”

Come see Guys and Dolls, Jr. at the auditorium at Westchester High School, 7400 Manchester Avenue.   Performances are Saturday, Feb. 26 at 7:00 PM, and Sunday, Feb. 27 at 1:30 PM.  Tickets are $10 each for adults and $5 each for children and may be purchased ahead of time at the school office or on the day of the performance at the auditorium. This performance is sponsored in part by the Msgr. Royale M. Vadakin Arts and Education Fund and the William H. Hannon Foundation. For further information call the school at 310-645-8816 or see the flyer at http://school.st-anastasia.org/flyers/2011-01-26/MusicalTickets