MATILDA JR.
Our 4th through 8th grade students brought Matilda JR to life, sharing a story that celebrates courage, creativity, and the power of standing up for what’s right. We chose this show because it reminds every child that their voice matters and that even the smallest acts of bravery can create big change.
For our students, this production was more than just a show. It was a journey of discovery and growth. They learned to trust themselves, to work together, and to see the strength that comes from kindness and perseverance. Every rehearsal, every line, and every song built their confidence and showed them what they’re capable of when they believe in themselves and each other.
Matilda JR reminded all of us that knowledge, imagination, and heart can overcome anything. At ACT 1, we’re proud to give our students a stage where they can grow as artists and as people, sharing their light and their stories with the community that believes in them.
SCHOOL
Somerset Parkland Academy
YEAR
05/2025
MADAGASCAR JR.
This season, ACT 1 brought the wild to life with Madagascar JR, a joyful and high-energy adventure based on the beloved DreamWorks film. We chose this show because it’s more than fun songs and colorful characters. It’s a story about friendship, courage, and discovering where you belong.
For many of our young performers, Madagascar JR was their first time stepping into the spotlight. Through rehearsals and performances, they learned what it means to work as a team, to trust their instincts, and to believe in themselves. Watching them grow in confidence and creativity reminded us why we do what we do.
At ACT 1, every show is a chance to teach life lessons through laughter and storytelling. Madagascar JR captured the heart of our mission: helping every child find their place, their purpose, and their voice in our community.
SCHOOL
Somerset Parkland Academy
Year
02/2025
DESCENDANTS
Our Kindergarten through 3rd grade performers stole the show with Descendants, a fun and empowering musical filled with music, laughter, and heart. For many of these young stars, it was their very first time on stage, and they shined with courage and joy every step of the way.
We chose this show because it teaches that who you are isn’t defined by where you come from, but by the choices you make and the kindness you show. Watching our youngest performers discover their voices and believe in themselves reminded us exactly why ACT 1 exists.
Every smile, every song, and every brave moment under those lights was made possible by community support. Your generosity helps us give children a safe, creative space to grow, dream, and imagine what’s possible. Together, we can keep helping young performers take their first steps toward a bright future both on stage and beyond.
SCHOOL
Somerset Parkland Academy
Year
05/2024
Disney’s The Little Mermaid JR was a magical experience that brought together an incredible group of young performers who truly became a family. From the first rehearsal to the final bow, our students supported one another, cheered each other on, and created something beautiful both on and off the stage.
We chose this show because it celebrates courage, curiosity, and the importance of following your heart. As our students dove into the story of Ariel and her journey to discover who she truly is, they found pieces of themselves along the way. The friendships that formed throughout this production became the heart of the show, reminding everyone that theatre isn’t just about performing, it’s about belonging.
The Little Mermaid JR was more than a performance. It was a reflection of what happens when young people are given the chance to dream together, lift one another up, and create something extraordinary as one cast, one family, and one community.
Disney’s The Little Mermaid JR
SCHOOL
Somerset Parkland
Year
05/2024
SpongeBob The Musical
In 2023, founder Andrew Ramsarran directed SpongeBob The Musical through Somerset Parkland Academy. As his second major production, it brought an explosion of color, laughter, and energy to the stage. The students transformed into the beloved characters of Bikini Bottom, filling the theatre with music, creativity, and joy.
We chose this show because it celebrates optimism, friendship, and the belief that even the smallest voices can make the biggest difference. The story of SpongeBob’s courage and determination mirrored the journey of our young performers, who learned that teamwork and heart can overcome any obstacle.
For many of these students, it was their first time performing in a full-scale musical complete with costumes, choreography, and sets. Watching their excitement and pride as the show came to life was unforgettable. It reminded us why theatre matters and how it changes lives.
SpongeBob The Musical wasn’t just a production. It was a celebration of creativity, growth, and community. Each smile, song, and standing ovation was made possible by the dedication of families and the generosity of supporters who believe in the power of the arts to inspire the next generation.
Client
Somerset Parkland Academy
Year
04/2023
SHREK JR
Shrek JR was the first production directed by founder Andrew Ramsarran under this creative formula. While serving as a first grade teacher at Somerset Parkland Academy, Andrew saw a need for a space where students could express themselves, build confidence, and discover the magic of theatre. What began as an idea quickly grew into a full drama program with more than 65 students from 4th to 8th grade.
Shrek JR marked Somerset’s very first musical, bringing the story of friendship, acceptance, and staying true to yourself to life on stage. It wasn’t just a show. It was the start of a tradition that united students, teachers, and families in celebration of creativity and community.
That first curtain call was a defining moment. It proved that when children are given the opportunity to create and perform, they rise to the occasion and shine in ways that inspire everyone around them. Shrek JR became the foundation for what would grow into a lasting legacy of theatre, storytelling, and belonging at Somerset Parkland Academy.
School
Somerset Parkland Academy
Year
04/2022
