Whiz Kids of the Week: St Mark's Young Musical Talents

This week's "Whiz Kid" nomination comes to us from Joscelle Shen of the Saint Mark’s School.  She has nominated the entire 5th grade class that will be performing in an upcoming original musical called "American Mythology."

“American Mythology” is an original musical written by the Saint Mark’s Elementary Music Teacher Catherine Hummel and Ms. Loren Tripp, mom of current Saint Mark’s sixth grade student Quincy Ryan, Shen tells us. 

The musical explores the various myths prevalent in American history and answers questions like “Did George Washington really chop down a cherry tree?” or “Who really discovered America?”  and features both traditional and pop music.

And here's what you need to know about the kids doing the performance:

●      Whiz Kid's Name (or Group name)

– 2010-2011 Fifth Grade Class

●      Whiz Kid's Age

All are between 10 and 11 years old

●      Whiz Kid's School

Saint Mark’s School - 1050 East Altadena Drive, Altadena, CA 91001 – 626.798.8858 – www.saint-marks.org

We are an Episcopal parish day school, serving 350 students from preschool through sixth grade.

●      Whiz Kid's Accomplishment

Performing in “American Mythology” – Drama, dance, vocal and instrumental music

●      Whiz Kid's Key to Awesomeness

These kids are successful because not only because they are talented singers, dancers, actors, and musicians, they are also enthusiastic and passionate young people who were willing to work hard both as a group and as individual performers.  Rehearsals were held exclusively during school hours, so everyone had to memorize their lines and learn their music mostly on their own time, in addition to their  full academic load and numerous extra-curricular activities.   

 Another key to their awesomeness is the support of their families and teachers.  Parents assisted with the staging and costuming of the play, while teachers served as stage managers and assistant directors. 

 Mostly, the key to their awesomeness is their strong Saint Mark’s community spirit – they enjoy learning and growing together, and this play really embodies what the Saint Mark’s experience is all about. 

“American Mythology” will be presented on Tuesday, February 15, 2011 starting at 7:00 PM in the Saint Mark’s Community Hall.

Do you know a child or group of children who should be featured in our "Whiz Kid" column?  Please write to dan.abendschein@patch.com with nominations or leave ideas in the comments section.