Desert Sands Middle School

Phoenix, AZ

Reported by Marty Johnson, Director of Education, iTheatrics

March 30, 2012

It was great to be back with the faculty and students at Desert Sands Middle School.  They have been rehearsing for their production of ANNIE JR for a little over a month now, and it is clear the students have a great understanding of the story and their characters, and now know how to communicate this information through acting, singing and dancing.  And with these skills in their pocket, the students are slowly transforming themselves from typical kids into true musical theater performers.  Bravo, Desert Sands.

Meet SAHIAN from Desert Sands Middle School


Grade: 6 Favorite subject: Science Favorite food: Pasta Hobbies: Swimming What do you want to be when you grow up? Actor Role in show: Molly Favorite part of the musical's story: When the orphans pretend they are on the radio singing "You're Never Fully Dressed" Favorite part of rehearsal: Dancing What do you think your family will say when they see the show? That I did a really fantastic job. Do you think it is important for other kids to be in a musical? Yes because they get to meet new people. If you could travel in time and visit yourself right before you perform in the show, what would you say? Remember to have fun!
Meet DAVID from Desert Sands Middle School
Grade: 8 Favorite food: Enchiladas made by my grandmother Favorite color: Black Favorite band or singer: Lady Gaga Favorite sport: Basketball What’s interesting about you and your family? We love to dance.  We also love each other even when we are mad at each other. What do you want to be when you grow up? A pediatrician Role in show: Drake Favorite part of the musical's story: When Annie is adopted and Daddy Warbucks starts to sing with her Favorite part of rehearsal: Practicing my lines How has being in the show changed you? It has made me a better actor. What do you think your family will say when they see the show? "Good Job," but in Spanish.  Then they will start to praise me. If you could travel in time and visit yourself right before you perform in the show, what would you say? Be calm, give it your all and make yourself noticeable.
*Read about the "Make A Musical" Team's first visit to Desert Sands Middle School!*
“NBC’s ‘Smash’: Make A Musical” program is administered by iTheatrics under the supervision of Timothy Allen McDonald.  For more information, or to apply to become a part of the program, logon to www.MAKEAMUSICAL.ORG.