North Moore High School’s theater program has built a reputation for bringing the community together, and this week is another example of that with a full slate of performances of The Little Mermaid and The Little Mermaid Jr.
Earlier this year, the program proved its strength on the competitive stage at the North Carolina Theatre Conference regional competition at Pinecrest. North Moore performed In You along with Night Witches, a historical piece centered on World War II Russian female pilots.
Gracie Cohen, a senior playing Sebastian in this week’s shows, earned one of the event’s top honors with an Outstanding Actress award.
“Deep down, I didn’t expect it,” Gracie said about winning at the theatre conference. “When they called my name, I was like, oh my gosh, I might actually be good at this.”
The program also earned Excellence in Directing, Outstanding Ensemble, and additional awards in music design and stage management at the conference.
That success continued with a trip to the state level and even national opportunities. Several students also traveled to New York in March to work with the Broadway Student Summit.
But what’s happening this week might mean even more.
Thursday, at 6:30 p.m., will feature a one-night performance of The Little Mermaid Jr., bringing together theater students and EC (Exceptional Children) students in a collaboration months in the making.
“My students are beyond excited,” said EC teacher Jaclyn Kennedy. “Every day, they look forward to going to practice. They have all become close to the theater students. It has really helped build lasting friendships and increased social skills with my students. You’ll leave with a smile.”
The advanced theater class partnered directly with EC students, working side-by-side in rehearsals, assisting with movement, and helping guide performances.
“They wanted to collaborate with other classes… it’s been a really cool experience for all of us,” said theater teacher Kimberly Fielder-Jones.
For students, the impact goes beyond the stage.
Junior stage manager Janice Betancourt-Sanchez said she enjoys helping behind the scenes.
“I’m shy, so I like helping the actors,” she said. “It can be challenging to lead, but seeing it all come together makes you proud. Working with the EC students has been heartwarming.”
Gracie is paired with Cannon Todd, who will also play Sebastian on Thursday.
“I didn’t know him before, but now it’s been amazing,” Gracie said. “He’s not scared at all and brings so much energy.”
Junior Chris Catalan, who won Excellence in Music Design at the conference, will play Prince Eric.
“My partner, Andrew, is like a little brother: we feed off each other, and it’s been fun,” Chris said.
The performance will also serve as a fundraiser, with proceeds split between the theater and EC departments.
The Little Mermaid Jr. is being held on Thursday at 6:30 p.m. The full production of The Little Mermaid follows across the weekend, with shows Friday at 7 p.m., Saturday at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m., and Sunday at 3 p.m. Saturday’s early show will include a character brunch, giving families a chance to meet the cast in character. Tickets can be purchased at the door.
Feature photo contributed.
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Curtis Self | Reporter
Article by Sandhills Sentinel reporter Curtis Self. Curtis has been writing for Sandhills Sentinel since 2019.
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