Disney and Dr. Phillips Center Bring Theater Magic to Local Schools
Disney storytelling is taking center stage in Central Florida elementary schools! An inspiring collaboration between Walt Disney World and the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts is allowing students to be stars through the Disney Musicals in Schools program.
Disney
These students are stepping onto the stage—many for the very first time—while learning about creativity, collaboration, and confidence.
An Inspiring Program
Disney Musicals in Schools is a program that introduces musical theater to young students across the U.S. and the U.K. It provides free performance materials and professional development for educators and schools.
Disney
“Here at Disney, we believe in the power of storytelling,” shared Tajiana Ancora-Brown, Walt Disney World Director of External Affairs. “Introducing arts education programs like this into elementary schools opens doors to new worlds and sparks creativity in future generations of storytellers right here in Central Florida.”
The result? Nurturing the next generation of performers and helping to create lasting, self-sustaining theater programs.
A Local Stage
Disney
Lake Gem Elementary in Pine Hills, Florida, is one of the newest schools to join this national initiative. Their young performers recently entertained audiences with a production of Disney’s The Aristocats KIDS.
The students also performed at the Dr. Phillips Center, showcasing their talents in costumes created from donated Disney World materials.
“By bringing theater to elementary schools, we’re reaching beyond our walls and giving young students a chance to explore creativity, build confidence, and find their voice early on,” said Ryan Simpson, Dr. Phillips Center’s Education Director. “It’s the kind of experience that can truly shape a lifetime and reflects our vision of Arts for Every Life.”
Costumes with a Purpose
Disney
This year, Disney invited teachers from the program to its iconic “Costuming Vault” to select materials for use in their productions.
Over 6,000 pounds of donated fabric and costume pieces were used in student performances, which also helped Disney’s sustainability goals.
“These donations help teachers and students in our area, and they also help our environment,” the company noted. “Excess fabric gets a new life right here in our community, keeping it out of landfills.”
A Creative Community
Disney
“It’s inspiring to see Disney Musicals in Schools flourish in Orlando,” said Lisa Mitchell, Director of Education and Audience Engagement at Disney Theatrical Group. “With the expert guidance of the Dr. Phillips Center education staff, this collaboration is a shining example of a community coming together to enrich the lives of children through the power of the arts.”
Through this innovative partnership, students are experiencing the fun and joy and that comes with the arts!
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Feature Photo: Disney
