Students take a trip to 'Oz'

FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP - Fourth- and fifth-graders at the Joseph J. Catena School, Burlington Road, performed the school's first musical production, "The Wizard of Oz," for the public on March 8-9.

Under the direction of Courtney Mislan and Holli Van, teachers at Catena, the students practiced their lines and vocal performances as others worked behind the scenes with set design and lighting to get the show ready. Parents involved in the school's PTO also lent a hand with stage design, props and costumes.

"In September, when we announced our intentions to direct Catena's first musical, we couldn't have imagined the outpouring of enthusiasm and support we received," said Van, a fifth grade teacher. "The performance is a product of the combined efforts of all aspects of our school community; students, staff and parents."

The cast and crew, made up of more than 70 students, went through all stages of creating a musical. Auditions were held and then participants attended practice after school each week. Students practiced performing and learned to use choreography, music, lighting and sound, according to a press release from the Freehold Township school district.

Fifth-grader Dana Hembling played the lead role of Dorothy. Her mother, Betsy Hembling, said she was thrilled her daughter was able to express her talent for singing while also getting involved in acting for the first time.

"I am so impressed with all of the enthusiastic kids who want to be here and do their best," Hembling said.

PTO President Linda DiStasi was also impressed with how the students appreciated each other's efforts.

"They learned all about theater etiquette and getting a sense of what it means to work together. From the beginning, they were excited to be part of it," DiStasi said.

Students were able to make their debut to the student community prior to their evening performances for the public. The children showcased parts of the play for the Catena student body on March 8 and were very well received.

"The students, staff and parents involved in this production worked as a team and a family to put together a fantastic performance. I am proud to be part of it," Principal Neal Dickstein said.