The lights came up on the stage Wednesday as students took their places in their large and imaginative doughnut costumes. For the next 45 minutes, community members were engrossed in a lively, colorful performance of “Arnie the Doughnut.”
This fall, the Children’s Theatre class put on a musical adaptation of the children’s book “Arnie the Doughnut” by Laurie Keller. The students began preparing for the production since August.
“Arnie the Doughnut” tells the story of a talking chocolate-sprinkled doughnut, Arnie, and his relationship with Mr. Bing, a man who buys him at a bakery. Arnie, played by senior Ben Evans, realizes a doughnut’s fate of being eaten and forms a friendship with Mr. Bing to save himself.
The Children’s Theater class presented a preview of the production to the students, faculty and staff on Nov. 14 during an Upper School assembly.
“It was hilarious to see all my friends up on stage singing and dancing in doughnut costumes and funny voices,” said junior Shaan Dhutia.
The class has been one of the most popular artistic electives for upperclassmen. Students said the class is a highlight of their school day.
“It’s a super fun class,” said senior Talley Kirkwood. “It helps you break out of your shell.”
The Children’s Theatre class is a fun and entertaining way for different students to grow close as they are pushed out of their comfort zones on stage. Many students in the class have never been part of a Kinkaid arts production before, while others are seasoned performers.
“During this class, I have been able to bond with people I never would have before,” said junior Ella Fox.
The students were very excited about performing a musical this fall, as most of the performances tend to be plays.
“I was so excited to be able to sing the wacky songs to all the kids,” Fox said.“It is so exciting to watch their faces light up when they see our crazy doughnut costumes.”
The Children’s Theatre class plans to travel around the city to showcase its performance to many elementary schools, including the KIPP SHARP College Prep school.
