How to go
WHAT: “The Aristocats” by The Performing Arts Academy
WHERE: Monroe High School, 220 Yankee Road, Monroe
WHEN: 7 p.m. June 30 and July 1
COST: $8
MORE INFO: (513) 594-7242
MONROE – Walt Disney created many instant classics that received worldwide praise, and the Performing Arts Academy of Middletown will soon perform one of these classics.
For $8, theatergoers may see a performance of “The Aristocats” by 4th- through 7th-graders who are in the Performing Arts Academy. The Disney musical animated feature will be brought to life at Monroe High School next week.
The original story features a family of aristocratic cats in France. Their rich owner writes her will and leaves all her possessions to the mother cat, leaving the butler jealous.
He kidnaps the cats and leaves them nowhere to be found. With an alley cat to their aid and rescue, the aristocats are led on an adventure in hopes of finding their way back home and their rightful belongings.
Entering its third year, The Performing Arts Academy’s mission is providing music education. That’s exactly what this musical is providing for those involved.
“We are learning music and dances and having a good time,” said musical director Nina Markle.
A lot of dedication is required from the youngsters. Rehearsals for “The Aristocats” are from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily. Costumes are still in the process of being finished.
Extra help is also required.
“Volunteers come in to help with lunches,” Markle said. “Parents bring desserts.”
Required auditions were held to be part of the musical, and 33 total children were selected to perform. The actors, some returning and some new, were drawn in from 13 communities.
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