Nearly 20 Upper Keys kids will showcase their dedication and hard work when they take the stage for “Junie B. Jones the Musical Jr.” beginning this weekend.
Based on the famous children’s book series written by Barbara Parks, the story centers on an almost 6-year-old Junie B. Jones and her adventures in kindergarten and first grade.
“It is such a staple in the classrooms and among kids,” said Key Largo School drama club teacher Michele Zofchak.
A majority of the young performers in this year’s musical are under 10 years old, Zofchak said. During the first week of summer vacation, the kids began working on the music for the show while practicing their parts.
“They’re so dedicated and really wanting to succeed,” Zofchak said. “And it’s a lot to ask anybody to sing for four and half hours.”
Some students in this year’s musical have performed in shows going back to KLS Drama Club’s inception three years ago under Zofchak. But for many other students, it’ll be their first time on stage.
Zofchak said the kids have been practicing nine to 10 hours a week leading up to the first show on Friday, Sept. 26 at 7 p.m. at the Coral Shores High School Performing Arts Center.
“It’s going to be an amazing show,” Zofchak said.
Starring as Junie B. Jones is fifth-grader Vivian Ensign. She said she’s happy to be performing in the lead role.
“I put really hard work in,” she said. “I have a million, trillion lines.”
Zofchak said several kids have blossomed throughout the way, including Emily Ornelas. Zofchak said she plays a large role in this year’s musical.
“She just sparkles and shines on the stage,” she said.
Then there’s Dalton Murray. He’s been in every play Zofchak has directed, in addition to productions put on by the Key Players.
“One thing I’ve experienced with all the shows that I’ve been in previously with Ms. Z is that once you stay with the cast, they basically become like a second family. And it’s really fun,” Dalton said.
Zofchak credited the work of several moms, including Julia Murray, Veronika Valdes, Nicole Blanche, Tiffany Zepeda and Ashley Bell, who’ve been helping along the way. She also expressed gratitude to Jeff Absten, who’s been constructing play sets for her the past 20 years; choreographer Kelly Shaw; and Kimmy McLaren.
Community members can see “Junie B. Jones the Musical Jr.” at the Coral Shores High School Performing Arts Center on Friday, Sept. 26 and Saturday, Sept. 27 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, Sept. 28 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $5 presale or $10 at the door. Purchase tickets by visiting https://www.vancoevents.com/us/events/landing/57197.
