Welcome to PLAYBILLDER Spotlight, where Playbill highlights shows from educational institutions or regional theatres and special events around the country (who have used Playbill's program-building service). By welcoming these PLAYBILLDERs center stage, we hope to give our readers a more in-depth look at theatre programs that are fostering the love of the performing arts in the next generation and the way theatre lovers are bringing Playbill along for life's big moments.
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This week's spotlight is A'Starz Studio of Duluth, Georgia, and their production of Mean Girls JR. This "fetch" musical from book writer Tina Fey, lyricist Nell Benjamin, and composer Jeff Richmond is packed with keen wit, an undeniably catchy score, and a sincere message about being true to yourself. Adapted from Fey's 2004 blockbuster film and the Broadway smash hit, Mean Girls, this 60-minute JR version has been tailored for young performers.
Producer and director Shar-Reese Alfred shared with Playbill about what she enjoys most about watching her students grow up and how A'Starz fosters an environment of mentorship from older students to younger ones.
Tell us a little about yourself. How many years have you been teaching?
Shar-Reese Alfred: I have been teaching music and theatre arts for over 25 years.
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
One of my proudest moments as an educator is seeing the children I taught theatre to in elementary school pursue performing or technical theatre in high school and college. I especially enjoy writing recommendation letters for them. The most challenging aspect of teaching theatre is retaining young male actors, while the most rewarding is witnessing the creation and commitment of budding thespians for each show.
Tell us a little about your studio and the people who help make your production happen.
A'Starz Studio is a multicultural teaching studio that offers camps, workshops, and classes leading to a professional performance. Most of our actors are beginners, and our more experienced actors become peer mentors to help train our newbies. Our company is primarily staffed by teenage volunteers who have trained with A'Starz Studio for five or more years. Together, they mentor and train budding actors, fostering a culture of love to help transform little stars into big stars!
Tell us a little bit about the production. What made you pick the show? How do you choose shows for your students?
As the director, I chose Mean Girls Jr. for two reasons: It is a popular title that kids are excited about, and it has a positive message of promoting self-esteem and identity, which most children struggle with in middle and high school.
What message do you have for your students as they take the stage?
The message that I have for our students is coined by Stanislavski, "There are no small roles, just small actors." With each show, it is my desire to build through affirmation confidence that transcends beyond the stage into their personal lives and future goals.
What reactions do you expect to see in students when they see their name printed in this Playbill for the first time?
I am confident that when our actors see the Playbill for the first time, they will be proud and it will boost their confidence to "break a leg" for our show!
How has PLAYBILLDER impacted your performing arts program as a resource?
PLAYBILLDER is the one-stop resource for organizing our production professionally. The virtual Playbill allows A'Starz studio to share our production with a wider audience in this digital world. PLAYBILLDER was especially helpful during the pandemic, as we could maintain a professional virtual experience for our actors and families. Besides, we love that our community production can have a Broadway look with an actual Playbill!
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