BY BOO NEWSOME
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN
INEZ — Martin County High School’s Drama Club brought the enchanting world of Disney to life with their production of “The Lion King Jr.” in the school’s auditorium Thursday.
Around 2,000 people saw the play, the second Broadway-style musical performed in the new school auditorium. Over 60 students were involved onstage and backstage.
The performance opened with the majestic coronation of Simba, accompanied by the melody of “Circle of Life” performed by Grace Caldwell as Rafiki.
The audience was transported to Pride Rock as all creatures gathered to witness this occasion. Madden Miller’s portrayal of Scar, alongside Evan Alexander’s Mufasa, set the stage for a tale of power and betrayal.
Throughout the play, familiar characters from the beloved Disney movie graced the stage, including Darrian Jewell’s Zazu, the comedic duo Timon and Pumbaa portrayed by Keilan Jewell and Drew Wilson, and a host of hyenas and lions.
Young Nala, played by Mia Fields, and Simba, played by Bradley Goble, delivered a performance of “I Just Can’t Wait to Be King,” while Scar and his cunning hyenas, portrayed by Kenadie Evans, Raegan Horn and Chloe Alley, schemed to seize control.
Miller’s performance of “Be Prepared,” with eerie lighting effects, captivated the audience as Scar plotted Mufasa’s demise. The heart-wrenching moment of betrayal, as Scar sends Mufasa to his death, was a highlight, masterfully executed by the cast.
Simba’s journey of self-discovery led him to the duo of Timon and Pumbaa, portrayed by Keilan Jewell and Drew Wilson. Their performance of the iconic anthem, “Hakuna Matata,” brought laughter from the audience.
Meanwhile, Dovie Harless, as Nala, struggled with the consequences of Scar’s tyranny, rallying support to reclaim Pride Rock. The duet “Can You Feel the Love Tonight,” performed by Dovie Harless and Bradley Goble as Simba, brought together the themes of love and redemption. The entire cast battled onstage as Simba took back his rightful place as King and the Pride Lands were restored to their former glory.
Director Michelle Harless expressed her gratitude to the Martin County School District, Superintendent Larry James, and the Board of Education members for their support. She also acknowledged First State Bank for their sponsorship and the dedicated individuals who contributed to the production’s success.
The cast list included Grace Caldwell, Evan Alexander, Darrian Jewell, Madden Miller, Mia Fields, Bradley Goble, Dovie Harless, Drew Wilson, Keilan Jewell and many others, who brought their characters to life.
Behind the scenes, a dedicated production team was led by Harless, aided by Tracy Caldwell, Mary Ann Farley, Kristen Evans and Kara Scott.
The set design was by Mary Ann Farley, and the lighting design was by Aiden Fields.
Rainey Preece volunteered his time to run the sound.
Karson Hammond did makeup and designed Pride Rock.
Choreographers Ashdon Kerr, Caroline Mills, Kenadie Evans, Sophie Harless and Bella Muncy added flair to the performances, while costume designer Connie Harless added the finishing touches.
Special thanks to Linda Booth for providing lunch for the kids one day.
Harless, who has been working with the students on the play since September, expressed her satisfaction with the outcome.
“I thought it was great,” Harless said. “I was extremely happy with the performances, and I am going to miss my seniors next year.”
