The Lion King, Jr.
By Alberto Muro
On March 17, the Sierra Middle School Auditorium filled with family members and friends to watch students from Mt. Vernon Elementary school do a rendition of the Lion King.
Director and teacher Muriel Ramos introduced diverse methods of entertainment that consisted of choreographed gymnastics, ballet, and Mexican folk dancing. Ms. Ramos admits she never saw the film, but she took this opportunity and used her students to create a rendition of the film.
As the lights went dim the spot light focused on Ms. Ramos, and she thanked everyone for making it to the production of The Lion King, Jr. Afterwards, the stage props of Pride Rock were set in place and the show began with the birth of Simba.
From start to finish, the production of the Lion King, Jr. was a spectacular display of art. The production gave the audience the opportunity to experience the music from the film as well as the costume and stage designs.
As the Lion King, Jr. concluded the spotlight focused on Ms. Ramos, and she thanked the families and friends of students for coming out to a fun-filled evening. Ms. Ramos also gave thanks to the staff for their unconditional support during the making of the Lion King jr.
After the performance, Muriel Ramos had time for an interview and said that she found her inspiration from Julie Taymor who is known for her production in the Lion King musical on Broadway.
“It was a dream come true to work on this production, and I admire Julie Taymor because of the details she goes into her production whether its movies or theater,” Ms. Ramos stated.
The details that went into the production of the Lion King, Jr. symbolized the dedication that the students had to create an environment based on a childhood memory.