Disney Extra Credit - Fall 2012 - (Page 21)

ast members from the national touring production of THE LION KING surprised the Decatur Central High School Show Choir recently by making a secret appearance at their Disney Performing Arts workshop at the Walt Disney World Resort. This magic moment gave the students a chance to hear real-life career insights from veterans of Broadway and national tours. The Indianapolis choir was participating in Disney’s Show Choir Magic workshop, which lets students experience what it’s like to rehearse for a Disney production. The program explores vocal and movement techniques for stage performance and teaches students choreography to accompany a vocal score. C This roaring surprise came just as THE LION KING North American tour celebrated 10 years on the road, a milestone the production passed during its Spring 2012 stop in Orlando. Fast Fact: More than 60 mill ion people around the worl d have delighted in watc hing this one-of-a-kind mu sical. “People have a very emotional connection to THE LION KING,” said Thomas Schumacher, President of Disney Theatrical Productions, producer of THE LION KING. “Because it’s literally lived in their homes as a film, as books and as music, when they experience the theatrical production, the emotions are that much more resonant.” While almost all musicians are familiar with the Academy Award®-winning song “Can You Feel The Love Tonight,” THE LION KING also offers up haunting ballads designed to showcase the voices of the show’s ensemble in exciting ways. For vocalists it’s important to be familiar and comfortable with performing a wide variety of musical genres, and Disney Performing Arts offers workshops and learning opportunities that help take music students to the next level. During the workshop’s closing performance, the Disney Performing Arts team arranged for the students to perform in front of an unexpected audience — four cast members from THE LION KING! Nick Cordileone, who plays Timon, and ensemble cast members Electra Weston, Paul Sadler and Amyia Burrell (who began her professional journey as a Walt Disney World Entertainment Cast Member) surprised the choir with applause and words of encouragement, making this special moment even more unforgettable. “We want these kids to know you always have to work on your craft,” said Electra Weston. “It’s essential to [continue to build your skills] because you can never get too good or too groomed.” The critically acclaimed show THE LION KING has won audiences over with its powerful musical score, extraordinary costumes and heartfelt story. But for Decatur Central High School student Amy Staton, the real excitement came from learning from those who have already achieved success in their vocal career. “It was such a great experience because we got to see people [who] actually do what we are doing on such a greater scale, and it was incredible to be able to apply what they do to what we do,” she said. Check out the video of this exciting magical moment! “We hope students get a glimpse as to what it takes to be a performer, whether on Broadway or here at Disney, and see the steps they need to take in order to get there,” said Betsy Ervin, Entertainment team leader, Disney Performing Arts. tips from the cast of THE LION KING Interested in taking a Disney Performing Arts Workshop? Visit disneyperformingarts.com/magazine or call 866-924-6145 to apply now. Go behind the scenes at THE LION KING National Tour N extra credit | 21  http://www.disneyperformingarts.com/magazine

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Disney Extra Credit - Fall 2012

Disney Extra Credit - Fall 2012
Contents
Welcome
Events Corner
Career Spotlight
Center Stage
Disney Parks News
Disney Performing Arts Alumni
Competitive Performances
Start Spreading The News
The King Of All Surprises
It's Showtime
Real-World Education
Benefits Of Student Travel
Travel Planner Honors
Music With A Cause
Mickey's Mind Teasers

Disney Extra Credit - Fall 2012

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