As classes start up for Leeds High School students, a group of theater kids have been working to prepare a special fall performance.

The theatre students, also known as, LHS Oak & Ivy Theatre want to ensure folks are incorporating an important quality into their day—fun. Fun is Oak & Ivy’s focus as they prepare for their first theatrical performance of the year, Fall Medley. Fall Medley is an infusion of beloved songs from classic children’s movies and musicals.

Jessica Boothe Frye, Director of LHS Oak & Ivy Theatre and in her fifth year with Leeds City Schools, her 10th year in education, wanted her students to perform something family-friendly.

“The first act is a sing-a-long. We also welcome kids to dress up as their favorite cartoon character,” Boothe Frye said.

Assembling her cast last May, rehearsals began in August when school started and now their ready to bring Fall Medley to packed houses in the Leeds High School auditorium Tuesday, Sept. 13, Wednesday, Sept. 14 at 7 p.m. and a Sunday matinee on Sept. 18 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $12 for adults and $7 per student. The LHS auditorium is located at 1500 Greenwave Drive.

When cast members were asked what this production a common theme emerged. Fall Medley is about the audience and performers having fun. Shelby Truitt is taking on the role of Sebastian from The Little Mermaid says she’s excited to perform for the younger students.

“It’s a fun thing to do because they might not have a chance to see a production otherwise,” Truitt said. “I really hope they see how hard we’ve been working. Maybe it will spark an interest in them to want to be in theatre!”

Junior Harper Soileau who plays Flotsam says it’s fun to do something completely different. “I hope audiences take away with them that we had a lot of fun and I hope they do too. As a performer that’s all you can hope for.”

Zac Taylor was introduced to theatre as a freshman when his brother Xavier got involved with Oak & Ivy.

“I’m sometimes shy and theatre has helped me get out of that,” Taylor said. “I look forward to the performances with the smaller aged children because I know they’ll really like it. It’s hard work, but a lot of fun. It’s also a big commitment, but worth it.”

Junior Felicity Kirk who’s taking on the roles of stage manager, a soloist in Act One and a seahorse says she’s excited to sing and dance. In her first time as stage manager, Kirk says it’s different than being a part of the cast because you’re involved in different ways. Looking forward to playing all these rolls what Kirk is most proud about with Fall Medley is the cast.

Zane Duke who plays Scuttle enjoys the whole aspect of theatre.

“Dressing up and singing makes everything that much better,” Duke said. “Theatre is a creative outlet where you can express yourself in the best way possible.”

As for how he calls those before curtain call jitters, Duke says, “I let them all out when I perform. The best thing I’ve learned is to channel that nervous energy into the performance.”

Giovanna Hernandez who plays Adella finds theatre fascinating. In her second year as an LHS Oak & Ivy Theatre student Hernandez says she’s really enjoyed it.

“For other students considering theatre, I’d say don’t be scared or nervous just come give it a try.” Joining theatre with her best friend Sonya Mansilla who plays Aquata has been a bonding experience for them. “We like a lot of the songs from Fall Medley. Throughout the day we randomly start singing them.”

Like her castmates Hernandez looks forward to performing for the younger aged children. “I love little kids! I want to make them laugh and have them enjoy the show.”

If you and your family have been searching for new ways to have fun make sure to make your way to see any or all of LHS Oak & Ivy Theatre’s fall production performances of Fall Medley. Where fun is the main feature.

Reserved ticket packages are still available and donations of formal dresses, bridesmaid dresses, fabric/sewing notions and business sponsorships are always welcomed. Email Jessica Boothe Frye at jfrye@leedsk12.org for details.