PHOTO PROVIDED Students at the Montgomery Area School District are putting the final polishing touches on "The Lion King Jr.” which will be a one-night only show on Feb. 7. This is a huge undertaking with students from each grade with the help of many faculty members. Special thanks to Carina McNear for supplying the photo!

The Montgomery Area School District will be presenting its first ever T.E.A.M. (Theatre, English, Art, Music) production in the form of “The Lion King Jr.” on Friday, Feb. 7 at 7 p.m.

The performance features a set designed by pre-K through sixth grade, cast members from grades five to eight, a fifth and sixth grade choral ensemble as well as high school student directors and producers from the elective Musical Theatre class.

This cross curricular project is involving hundreds of students as well as a team of teachers, and celebrates the arts and their ability to teach collaboration while enhancing teamwork, communication and performance.

“The Lion King Jr.” outlines the Disney classic adapted to the skill set of younger performers and tells the storyof an animal kingdom ruled by King Mufasa, Simba’s father. When Mufasa’s evil brother, Scar, convinces Simba to leave the Pridelands, the kingdom is left to wonder what will happen to their young prince. Drama, laughter and love ensue through acting, song and dance.

“The Lion King Jr.” is licensed by Music Theatre International with music and lyrics by Elton John and Tim Rice with additional music and lyrics by Lebo M, Mark Mancina, Jay Rifkin and Hans Zimmer.

The book is by Roger Allers and Irene Mecchi and is based on the Broadway production directed by Julie Taymor.

Virtuoso Junior is currently under the direction of Mr. J. Allen Glover. Virtuoso is co-directed by Carina McNear and Jessica Carpenter. Set design is being overseen by Mrs. Bess Lowrey and chorus and tech by Mrs. Susan Palazzo and Mr. Brian Rehn.

Tickets are available on the Showtix4u website for pre-order or can be purchased at the door the evening of the show while supplies last.

Questions can be directed to cmcnear@montasd.org.