Students from the third-, fourth- and fifth-grade classes at
Twin Lakes Academy Elementary showed their families and classmates how to celebrate the holidays with a musical production. The musical was all encompassing, recognizing the traditions of various holidays celebrated during this time of year. The students sang songs honoring many cultural and religious customs throughout the world.
The musical was based around a team of chimney sweepers who, while cleaning chimneys throughout one neighborhood, discovered different families in need of holiday cheer. The chimney sweepers wanted to help these people have a joyous holiday, so they took it upon themselves to provide assistance in any way they could.
Along the way they cleaned out a chimney for Santa, brought holiday cheer to an unhappy Kwanzaa girl who didn’t want to celebrate, provided ingredients to a family so they could make traditional Jewish latkes, and helped one family save the Mexican tradition of breaking piņatas in celebration.
The students rehearsed every day after school for about a month for a couple hours each day. The students’ ability to learn the songs and choreography in such a short period of time showed their dedication and commitment to producing a successful show. The musical was directed by Susan Beauchamp, a school counselor and sponsor of what she titled the Twin Lakes Academy Elementary music/drama club.
“With all of the negative focus about public education, we need to focus on the positive emphasis in public schools and the importance of performing arts in all schools,” said Ms. Beauchamp.
For more pictures from the Twin Lakes Academy Elementary musical production,
visit the
DCPS' flickr photostream.
More 'Spotlight on Education' Articles
Stay connected to the latest school news and events
