Drama presents ‘Aladdin Jr.’

Drama presents ‘Aladdin Jr.’

By Araceli Galarza Posted: March 20, 2020

Every year Lowry puts on multiple pays and gives the community a good laugh. This year is no different, with the live-action “Aladdin Jr.” being released last year the drama class decided to follow suit.

A lot of hard work goes into performing on stage in front of an audience. It’s hard not to get into your head and not many people could sit on a stage and sing. Natale Contreras is no different, she throws herself into her work and the nerves just fade away.

“Honestly, you are so focused on making sure that the production goes right that you don’t even really notice,” said Contreras. “Your nerves die down and if you are nervous, you can just try to remind yourself that almost everyone feels the same way and that audience will most likely not remember your mistakes if you make any.”

Jeremey Walker and Jonathan Green./Otila Castaneda • Lowry Digital Media
Jeremey Walker and Jonathan Green./Otila Castaneda • Lowry Digital Media

This year the play is being featured as the kids play, for the drama cast especially Jeremy Walker who plays Aladdin along with Daniel Fernandez.

“My favorite thing about this play is giving this experience to the kids,” said Walker. “Giving them the magic feeling that I had when I watched the plays as a kid.”

./Otila Castaneda • Lowry Digital Media
./Otila Castaneda • Lowry Digital Media

A lot of hard work goes into producing a play, from set designs to rehearsals, it is important to remember that while the play can be spectacular it isn’t perfect off the bat.

“I think the play has been going great so far,” said Walker. “At first, it was a little rough but thanks to the awesome Stagecraft and Drama crew we’ve been able to really develop the play and enjoy it.”

Makayla Leveille explained the effort that must go into practicing lines and how she has learned to prioritize.

./Otila Castaneda • Lowry Digital Media
./Otila Castaneda • Lowry Digital Media

“I have to fit in/make time throughout the day because learning my lines needs to be a priority to make the plays as successful as possible,” said Leveille. “The toughest part about drama is being able to put everything together at the dress rehearsal and trying to keep things fluid at the same time.”

Playing such big roles is a lot of pressure, Ariana Galindo and Bianca Sigala were both cast to play Jasmine. With all the little girls looking up at them it’s hard to find a balance but that is exactly what Galindo had to overcome.

./Otila Castaneda • Lowry Digital Media
./Otila Castaneda • Lowry Digital Media

“Jasmine is such a strong character, she’s very independent and I definitely had to practice how to be gentle and strong all at the same time,” said Galindo. “I think we can all relate to Jasmine in a way, as women I think we all want to be seen as independent and Jasmine is so independent she will voice her opinions to anyone. She’s such a great character to play and I’m glad I get to channel my inner princess.”

Jonathan Green exhibiting his talents as the Sultan./Otila Castaneda • Lowry Digital Media
Jonathan Green exhibiting his talents as the Sultan./Otila Castaneda • Lowry Digital Media

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