Des Plaines school's 'Mulan' production a learning experience

This December, students from Friendship Junior High School in Des Plaines brought the 1998 Disney classic "Mulan" to their performance stage. "Mulan" is the story of a young girl who secretly joins the army in place of her father to save his life. She becomes one of China's greatest heroines in the process.

"Mulan" was selected by Friendship's fine arts staff to highlight the talents of students and for the positive message about being true to self.

Friendship students performed a morning matinee for fifth-grade students from Brentwood and Devonshire elementary school in Des Plaines and Robert Frost elementary school in Mount Prospect as a way of introducing the students to their future school. The schools are part of Elk Grove Township Elementary District 59.

Two evening performances of "Mulan" also were given for family and community members.

"The process of bringing a show to life is a great learning experience," fine arts teacher Jessica Zolmierski said. "In addition to learning the many aspects of performing arts, the actors and stage crew see that a variety of talents are needed to create a successful show. They experience the collaborative efforts of a team and learn the intrinsic value of working hard to create something together."

Zolmierski said the fine arts team loves to see the students shine.

"The joy it brings to the students, the confidence it gives them, makes it all worth it," she said.

Friendship Principal Jodi Megerle agrees.

"Day by day, you see all the hours and time that both students and staff put in. And then, when it all comes together so beautifully, you cannot help but to feel proud as their principal to be able to showcase our students' talents to their parents, district and community."