Westminster middle-schoolers to stage 'The Lion King Jr.'

The Westminster Christian Middle School Fine Arts department will present the beloved Disney story, "The Lion King Jr." at 7 p.m. Friday, April 27, and at 2 and 7 p.m. Saturday, April 28.

Tickets, $7-10, are available at www.westminsterchristian.tix.com

Disney's "The Lion King Jr." tells the tale of the "Circle of Life" as Simba grows up in the savannas of Africa. When Simba suffers from tragedy, he runs away, meeting many new friends and learning that you have to "put your behind in your past." The production features classic Disney songs like "Hakuna Matata," and "Can You Feel the Love Tonight?"

Sixth-grader Naia Johnson plays the powerful and take-charge character of Nala.

"I've wanted this role since I saw the Broadway show when I was 10 years old," she said. "I hope the audience enjoys the show. We (the actors) love having people come to watch us perform."

Young Simba is played by seventh-grader Logan Sterkel, who is taking the Westminster stage for the very first time.

"I'm having a lot of fun," Logan said. "I am acting with fellow Christians which helps me make a good connection. I want to continue acting and look forward to it."

Rafiki, the iconic monkey, is played by eighth-grader Molly Fraser. This will be her last middle school production.

"It's a great community," Molly said. "It is wonderful to have people support you, and the directors are very personal and caring. They care about you and your growth in theater. It's really fun doing the middle school shows. I'm kind of sad it's my last year. I don't want to go to high school and leave this behind."

Director/producer Johanna Johnson, vocal director Lois Shaw, choreographer Rosalie Mahler, assistant director and Westminster senior Michaela Newton are ecstatic to be presenting this production.

"One of the fondest memories was teaching the first dance 'Circle of Life,'" Mahler said. "The kids got a really challenging part and they were so excited. It encourages me to give them a challenging part and to see how excited they are to take on a challenge. Let yourself have fun watching the musical. It's so different than your average show because of the animals and the influence of the strong music," said Mahler.

Westminster Christian School is at 2700 W. Highland Ave., Elgin. For details, call (847) 695-0310.