McDonald County High School's new Performing Arts Center hosted it's first performance last weekend.
"High School Musical Jr." was presented by the Theater Department on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
Scenes From The Stage
More photos from ‘High School Musical Jr.’ are on Page 8A.
The play follows two high school students, Troy and Gabriella, as they navigate the rough waters of stereotypes, the status quo, and standing up for what they believe in.
Troy is a star basketball player and Gabriella is a natural math wiz. Over summer break, the two meet at a ski resort and, while singing karaoke, discover they both have a passion for performing. Unfortunately, the pair attend different schools until Gabriella unknowingly transfers to Troy's school, East High.
The two are then faced with a challenge -- continue in their predetermined roles or break the mold and pursue theater.
"This was our biggest production yet," said drama teacher Emily Wooten.
"We had a wonderful turnout from the community, with almost 1,000 people attending. My students and I are so grateful for the outpouring of love and support we received and I'm so thankful for everyone that laid the groundwork for us to get this new space."
The first performance in the new PAC was held in memorium of Todd Kerley.
"Kerley was a huge supporter of the Drama Department and when he passed away in 2012, any donations given to his family were directed to our Drama Department. It was promised to his family at that time that when our new performing arts center was completed and we performed our first show, we would do it in honor of him," Wooten said.
Kerley was a 2005 graduate of MCHS who loved the theater. In May 2012, just weeks before his death, he graduated from the University of Arkansas with a degree in journalism.
He died on May 31 from injuries received in a one-vehicle accident shortly after the Performing Arts Center was approved for construction.
General News on 11/24/2016