From April 23 through April 25, Southern Middle School's Theater Arts Guild will present its annual musical production. This year's show is "Willy Wonka Jr.," a popular show adapted to the stage for young performers that maintains all the wonder and spectacle from the movies.

Students involved in the production experienced the audition process in February, including call-backs and cast meetings. Rehearsals started soon after working on songs, dialogue, and dances. Students also participated in building the sets, making props and creating costumes.

"I believe students participating in a musical should be involved in all aspects of the production," says director Eric Kopecky. "When students are deeply involved in the show, they are able to gain more from the experience. They have a personal connection to the final production when they can say, 'Hey, I helped build that!'"

Students in all grades can participate in the show, from sixth-graders like Christian Gray as Violet Beauregarde or Trystan Pratapas as Mr. Bucket, to veteran eighth-grade performers like Patrick Hardison as Willy Wonka, the Candy Man. This year, additional help for directing the show came from sixth-grade teacher, Emily Zizza, and choral director, Marcia Reid, as well as the many parents who helped in set construction.

The first show will be Thursday, April 23, at 7 p.m. Additional shows will be at 8 p.m. Friday, April 24, and Saturday, April 25. All shows will be presented at the Southern Middle School gym stage. Tickets can be purchased at the door. For additional information, call 693-1550 or e-mail ekopecky@mcs.k12.nc.us.