News Summary
Over 140 elementary school students will perform at the Providence Performing Arts Center, celebrating their participation in the Disney Musicals in Schools program. Students from various schools will showcase their talents in popular Disney musicals, marking the culmination of a 17-week theater residency. This initiative aims to enhance arts education in under-resourced schools and foster creativity among students through musical performances.
Providence, Rhode Island – Over 140 elementary school students will take center stage on June 2, 2025, at the Providence Performing Arts Center (PPAC) as part of a celebration of their participation in the Disney Musicals in Schools program. This exciting event will feature performances from schools in Central Falls, Pawtucket, Providence, and Warwick, showcasing their talent and hard work as they perform beloved Disney musicals.
The event marks the culmination of a 17-week musical theater residency aimed at fostering creativity and providing access to arts education in under-resourced public elementary schools. The residency was conducted by teaching artists trained by both PPAC and Disney Theatrical Group, ensuring that students receive quality instruction at no cost to the participating schools.
Hoxsie Elementary School in Warwick will bring the animated world of “Finding Nemo KIDS” to life. Meanwhile, Raíces Dual Language Academy from Central Falls and Henry J. Winters Elementary School from Pawtucket will present a rendition of “The Lion King KIDS.” Robert L. Bailey, IV Elementary School in Providence is set to perform “Aladdin KIDS.” These performances are the result of collaborative efforts among students, teachers, and local artists dedicated to advancing school theater programs.
The Disney Musicals in Schools program was launched in 2010 with the objective of addressing the lack of arts education in public elementary schools that are often under-resourced. Schools participating in the program not only gain the rights to perform their chosen musicals, but they also receive educational support materials and guidance from PPAC teaching artists. A key component of the program involves professional development for teachers, empowering them to learn how to produce and direct their own musicals.
The Student Share Celebration at PPAC will highlight the culmination of this year-long program and provide a platform for students to showcase their skills and increase their confidence in the performing arts. The program’s overarching aim is to create sustainable theater initiatives in public elementary schools, thereby enriching the cultural fabric of their communities.
As part of the celebration, the event will be hosted by Karah Bailey, ABC 6 Morning News Anchor, along with Joe Wilson, Jr., Director of the Office of Arts, Culture and Tourism for the City of Providence. Their involvement underscores the importance of community support and engagement in promoting arts education.
Through community collaborations and financial backing, the Disney Musicals in Schools program has successfully established a strong foothold in providing arts education resources for vulnerable populations. The grant awarded by Disney to PPAC specifically supports this initiative, allowing more children to experience the joy of musical theater.
As the date approaches, excitement is building among the students and their communities, with families and friends eager to witness the remarkable performances that are a testament to creativity and resilience amidst the challenges faced in accessing quality arts education. The Student Share Celebration is not just a performance but an affirmation of the students’ hard work, dedication, and ability to inspire others through their artistic expression.
The upcoming event is a clear demonstration of the positive impact that accessible arts programs can have on a community and the lives of young individuals, fostering a love for the performing arts that these students will carry forward.
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- Providence Journal: PPAC 2025-26 Schedule
- GoLocalProv: Six Broadway Shows for PPAC
- Independent RI: Arts and Living
- Broadway World: THE WHO’S TOMMY National Tour
- Boston Globe: Harry Potter at PPAC
- Wikipedia: Arts Education
- Google Search: Disney Musicals in Schools
