As the curtain fell on summer school, stages across the Atlantic City Public School District came alive with music, drama, and joy, courtesy of the district’s Visual and Performing Arts Program. In an exciting display of student creativity and  enthusiasm on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, each school brought smiles to their  audiences with a series of vibrant productions, marking the culmination of weeks of  hard work and artistic growth. 

“It is with immense pride and gratitude that I commend our talented students, dedicated  educators, and supportive families for their outstanding efforts in bringing this season’s  VPA productions to life,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. La’Quetta S. Small. “Through  music, storytelling, and live performance, our students have embraced important  lessons about courage, friendship and self-belief. They have inspired us all to celebrate  our differences and support one another as we grow.” 

Brighton Avenue School: Broadway Beat 

Brighton Avenue School delivered an energetic performance of Broadway Beat, a  musical revue that celebrates the history and spectacle of Broadway through iconic  show tunes. Often used in educational theater, the production weaves together  moments from classics like Annie, Cats, and The Phantom of the Opera. Students paid  homage to the magic of the Great White Way with spirited choreography and renditions  designed to transport the audience to New York’s famed theater district.

Principal Jason Grimes said the students performed songs from Hairspray, Charlie and  the Chocolate Factory, Wicked, Grease and Rent. “We had all the grade levels participate,  even kindergarten,” Grimes said. “They did a phenomenal job.” 

Chelsea Heights School: Rock and Roll Forever 

Chelsea Heights School rocked the stage with Rock and Roll Forever, a spirited tribute to  the enduring power of rock music. Set in a fictional music museum, this jukebox-style  musical celebrates the genre’s history, featuring songs and characters from the 1950s to  modern day. The young performers channeled musical legends, giving families a  nostalgic journey through the decades. 

Principal James Knox commended the students for their hard work and  dedication. “VPA is one of the greatest programs that we have,” said Knox. “The students  love it. A lot of famous people got their start on school stages.” 

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. School Complex and New York Avenue School: Pirates 2

In a shining example of teamwork, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. School Complex and New  York Avenue School joined forces to present Pirates 2: The Hidden Treasure, a humorous  and heartwarming sequel to Pirates! The Musical. Designed for young performers, the  show follows a new crew of pirates on a treasure-hunting quest, filled with catchy  tunes, clever dialogue, and messages about courage, inclusion, and friendship. 

“They worked really well together,” said New York Avenue School VPA Director Yenis  Munnoz. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. School Complex VPA Director Lyneris Kelly,  agreed. “lt’s great to combine schools,” Kelly said. “It’s a chance for the students to meet  other kids from another school who have the same interests.” 

Pennsylvania Avenue School & Uptown School Complex: 101 Dalmatians Kids

The beloved story of 101 Dalmatians Kids came to life on stage as students from  Pennsylvania Avenue School and Uptown School Complex charmed audiences with  their portrayal of Disney’s classic tale. Adapted for young performers, this musical  version follows Pongo and Perdita on a daring mission to rescue their puppies from the  villainous Cruella de Vil. With spots, barks, and heart, the cast celebrated themes of  bravery, family, and teamwork. Spoiler alert! Cruella de Vil never did get that spotted  puppy fur coat. 

Pennsylvania Avenue School VPA Director Nycole Lyles Belton said the summer school  students made exceptional progress because of their consistency. John Howard Jr., of  Uptown’s VPA program, agreed. “They’re singing well. They’re acting well,” said Howard.  “They’re exceeding our expectations.” 

Sovereign Avenue School: Goldie Locks and the Three Bears & Character Matters

Sovereign Avenue School presented two productions, showcasing a range of student  talent. For Kindergarten through second grade, Goldie Locks and the Three  Bears brought the crowd timeless fairy-tale charm under the guidance of student  director Ryan Uddoullah. 

Later, students in grades three through seven performed Character Matters, a musical  that re-imagined fairy-tale characters attending a school assembly on values like  honesty, respect, and responsibility. With interesting songs and scenes, the  performance encouraged students and the audience alike to reflect on what it means to be a good friend and citizen. “It’s been an experience,” said Sovereign Avenue School  VPA Director Zacha Andujar. “I’m proud of them.” 

Texas Avenue School: Goal

Texas Avenue School students set their sights high in a performance of Goal, a  motivational musical that uses soccer as a metaphor for achieving dreams. Written by  John Jacobson and Mark Brymer, the show highlights themes of perseverance,  teamwork, and believing in oneself. The cast delivered a heartfelt message about the  importance of practice, passion, and never giving up. 

Texas Avenue School Principal Lena Gil commended the students for their hard  work. “The Texas Avenue School production of GOAL was an engaging performance  that showcased both the creativity and commitment of our students,” said Gil. “The  students’ enthusiastic performance of the play, based on the sport of soccer and  produced in a short amount of time, kept the audience entertained throughout.” 

Richmond Avenue School: Welcome to the Jungle

Richmond Avenue School transported audiences into the heart of the wild  with Welcome to the Jungle. This playful musical introduces jungle animals who  discover the value of friendship, self-worth, and embracing their differences. With lively  characters and vibrant costumes, the show brought the summer arts program to a  spirited close. 

Richmond Avenue School Principal Shontai Harris praised the students for their  dedication. “That’s the crew. They do VPA all year long, and then they come back in the  summer to do VPA,” said Harris. She said the VPA program has helped the students  build confidence. “They’re shy except when they’re on stage,” Harris said. “They’re very  talented.” 

Kawania Durand, Teacher Coordinator for Title One programs, said VPA performances  have immeasurable educational value. “The arts infuse our lives with meaning on nearly  all levels. They inspire creative and critical thinking and encourage acceptance of  diversity,” said Durand. “I also love the magical ability that the arts have to transform  cafetoriums into theaters and once bashful students into full-out performers.” 

Together, these memorable performances showcased not only the creativity and  dedication of students and educators across the district, but also the unifying power of 

the arts. By sharing stories, music, and laughter on stage, each school contributed to a  summer filled with inspiration, discovery, and connection. Here’s to another successful  Visual Performing Arts season for the Atlantic City Public Schools.