Get ready to “Bop to the Top” as the Ocean City Theatre Company (OCTC) presents Disney’s “High School Musical Jr.” on Friday, Aug. 28 and Saturday, Aug. 29 at 7:30 p.m. at the Ocean City Music Pier.
Featuring talented students in 5th through 8th grades, this energetic production is part of OCTC’s Junior Company program, providing young performers with the opportunity to experience the excitement, responsibility and teamwork that come with producing a full musical.
Based on the hugely popular Disney Channel Original Movie, “High School Musical Jr.” follows Troy Bolton, Gabriella Montez and their classmates at East High as they navigate friendship, first love, academics, extracurricular activities and the pressure to fit into the roles others expect them to play.
When Troy and Gabriella decide to audition for the school musical, they challenge the established social order at East High and discover that there is room for everyone to shine. Filled with memorable songs, energetic choreography and an uplifting message about friendship, individuality and following your dreams, “High School Musical Jr.” is an entertaining experience for audiences of all ages.
The production is under the direction of James Craver, Fran Merlino and Erik Wagner, who are working with the young performers to bring this beloved musical to life on the Ocean City Music Pier stage.
“There is something especially meaningful about bringing ‘High School Musical Jr.’ back to the stage,” said Michael Hartman, OCTC founding artistic director. “Sixteen years ago, ‘High School Musical Jr.’ was the very first Jr Company production we presented. To see a new generation of students take on this show all these years later is incredibly special. It is a wonderful reminder of how much our Junior Company has grown and how many young people have had the opportunity to discover their love of theatre through OCTC.”
OCTC’s Junior Company program provides students with an opportunity to develop their performance skills while learning the importance of collaboration, commitment and professionalism in a supportive theatrical environment. For many students, the program serves as an important stepping stone in their continued involvement in the performing arts.
Performances of Disney’s “High School Musical Jr.” will take place Friday, Aug. 28 and Saturday, Aug. 29 at 7:30 p.m. at the Ocean City Music Pier.
Tickets are just $15, making the production an affordable opportunity for families, friends and theatre lovers to support these talented young performers. For tickets and additional information, visit the www.oceancitytheatrecompany.com.
Disney’s “High School Musical Jr.” is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International.
