Pegram Elementary to stage ‘The Lion King’ May 9

Pegram Elementary Fine Arts Magnet School (PEFAMS) was awarded a grant from Disney through the Tennessee Performing Arts Center (TPAC) to support its upcoming production of “The Lion King” on Friday, May 9 at 6 p.m.

The play – directed by 4th grade English teacher Megan Judge – will feature 26 elementary-aged students. The production will only last about 45 minutes, according to Judge, but “all of the amazing must-have scenes [from the movie and original Broadway play] are in there.”  

“I like to call this a plusical,” Judge told the Gazette, “The perfect mixture of a play and musical. There are some big musical numbers, but we do have some rather important speaking scenes as well.” 

“The Lion King” will be PEFAMS’s second play, but the school's first “big” production. 

According to District Communications Director Tim Adkins, the “Disney Musicals in Schools” grant from TPAC has allowed PEFAMS to “enhance its production, ensuring a vibrant and memorable experience for our audiences.” 

He added, “The grant is being used for various aspects of the production, including set design, costumes and educational outreach programs that connect the magic of ‘The Lion King’ with the community.”

As part of the grant, TPAC teaching artists have been working closely alongside the 26 children starring in the show. According to Judge, the production wouldn’t be possible without the help of parents and volunteers from Harpeth High School's theatre program. 

“The students have been absolute rockstars,” the play’s director said. “Our students practiced after school from 3:00-4:45 every Monday and Wednesday. Although, we have seen them practicing all over. My 4th graders that are in the production would ask me to run lines with them during recess. They are so dedicated.”  

She continued, “The support from the parents has been astronomical to the success of this play. They have offered to create sets, sew costumes, and (most importantly to the students) provide snacks. They have also been instrumental in helping ensure their child was attending the practices. Without their support, there would be no play.” 

A free community performance will be held at PEFAMS on Friday, May 9 at 6 p.m.