<\/p>\n
Spectators at can expect an uplifting and funny underdog story during Cortez Middle School\u2019s production of the musical \u201cAdventures of a Comic Book Artist\u201d this weekend.<\/p>\n
Performances are Friday, Nov. 5, at 7 p.m. and Saturday, Nov. 6, at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Tickets are $8 for adults, $5 for children, seniors and MCHS students and free for CMS students and staff, MCHS staff children under 2.<\/p>\n
Eighth-grader Jadon Cruzan, who plays lead character Stanley Leonard Sappovitz, said the show features great fight scenes and dances.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s an uplifting story,\u201d Jadon said. \u201cYou\u2019ll definitely get a laugh.\u201d<\/p>\n
His character is a janitor at Wonder Comics who dreams of becoming a comic book artist, but is unnoticed by the company boss, Mr. Wunderman. When Mr. Wunderman orders a set of magical pens to try and boost business, Stanley\u2019s comic book characters finally come to life.<\/p>\n
Seventh-grader Koral Jackson plays Doctor Shock Clocks, a supervillain clad in a rainbow wig who has the ability to stop time at the snap of a finger. She said the dances in the show are well-choreographed, and the audience will be surprised by the production.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s probably going to be unexpected,\u201d Koral said.<\/p>\n
Dr. Shock Clocks causes mayhem in the town, leading to a climactic battle between the Doc, Stanley, and other superheroes such as Star Guy, Triple Time, Blossom and Wombat Woman. The show also features two narrators and a backdrop of colorful, comic book-inspired sets.<\/p>\n
The theme for this year\u2019s drama season at CMS is \u201cStand Strong, Stand True,\u201d and this show fits in that theme because the cast members get to play superheroes, co-director Angela Gabardi said.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe wanted to find shows that helped kids find their voice,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
Gabardi and co-director Marla Sitton picked the show in part because comedy musicals that are appropriate for middle school casts are rare, Gabardi said.<\/p>\n
Sitton said it\u2019s just the second year that CMS has produced a musical. The show provides another creative outlet for students and helps prepare them for similar activities in high school, she said.<\/p>\n
After producing \u201cPirates of Penzance\u201d last year, the directors wanted to pick a musical with more roles fit for middle schooler, Sitton said.<\/p>\n
\u201cI think everyone wants to be a superhero,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
Gabardi said the production fits the current group of drama students. They get to be over the top, but they also get to showcase their talents with some great acting, singing and dancing, she said.<\/p>\n
\u201cThey own it,\u201d Gabardi said. \u201cThese are goofy, funny kids who are also really talented.\u201d<\/p>\n