2018 Middle School Production – Xanadu Jr
In deciding on Kristin’s Middle School Production for the 2018 season, we felt it was the year to produce something outside of the box – something fresh, vibrant and with music that would speak to a wide audience and excite cast and crew alike. The Broadway Junior adaptation of the cult classic film Xanadu was the perfect fit for our current students and production team, and, although not the most well known show, we knew that the 80’s pop-rock and comedy gold would excite, entice and entrance those audience members lucky enough to enjoy its splendour.
Xanadu Jr was not without its staging and technical challenges – flashbacks to the 40’s, a floating Pegasus, a dancing Centaur, a magical shoe change in a Phone Box and, of course, the iconic roller-skates. Training and preparation began in all areas to not only secure these elements, but to deliver and once again meet Kristin’s proud tradition in the Performing Arts.
The unwavering talents of 162 Middle School students on and off stage, led by 4 Senior School crew leaders, shined through a 6 week rehearsal period. Cast members performed chart topping ELO classics, 80’s inspired choreography and quick-witted comedy to an exceptional standard. Those privileged enough to be part of the crew pushed themselves in various technical and backstage positions, and grew under our exceptional Production Team, mentoring and educating students through every step. Junior, Middle, Senior and Alumni parents, community members and staff have graciously supported this triumphant Middle School production in various ways. My heartfelt thanks goes out to them as together, we have believed in the Xanadu ‘Magic’ that has occupied the Auditorium.
Kristin’s Productions continue to highlight the strength and positive impact of the arts in the lives of young people. The benefits of developing communication, self-confidence, verbalisation, motor skills, team work, memorisation, physical activity, and self-esteem (to name a few) through a positive and uplifting experience are unprecedented in the lives of an adolescent. To quote Year 10 student Tim Gunn (Sonny Malone) in a post-show email, Xanadu was described as “a highlight of [his] life”.
Although Kira’s roller-skates may have wheeled across the Kristin stage for the last time, the spirit of Xanadu will live on forever, and all involved can take a collective bow and feel an overwhelming sense of pride in this very special Middle School memory.
Hamish Mouat
Acting Artistic Director of Kristin Major Productions
