The Rainforest Calls!
First-graders bring their studies to life in show.
Our first-graders have been studying the rainforest for the past few weeks, learning about the four layers of the rainforest and which species live in each one.
“There are four layers,” said 1st-grader Donovan C. “Lots of animals can live there.”
The students performed their grade-level show, Singing in the Rainforest, to a roomful of enchanted parents and friends. The show taught the audience about the rainforest through music and lyrics that tied directly to the classroom curriculum.
“Since this was their first grade-level performance on the main stage, the most challenging part was channeling the excitement while also taking time to learn important skills like staying safe on the risers, using a microphone, and performing on stage,” said Music Specialist Jessica Barker.
This year’s production included several upgrades from previous years. The show added a lively production number featuring spider monkeys, and the costumes were noticeably leveled up, turning the entire performance into a technicolor treat for the eyes.
Singing in the Rainforest not only reinforces the science the students have been learning in the classroom, but also gives them a wonderful way to express their artistic side through words, music, and movement.
“This show meets the children where they are developmentally with short songs, simple lines, and plenty of repetition,” said Ms. Barker. “There are also supports in place for this age group; they don’t have to memorize their lines yet, longer songs are balanced with shorter ones, and songs with dancers use full recordings so the singers can stay on the beat without throwing off the dancers.”
“This show meets the children where they are developmentally with short songs, simple lines, and plenty of repetition,” said Ms. Barker. “There are also supports in place for this age group; they don’t have to memorize their lines yet, longer songs are balanced with shorter ones, and songs with dancers use full recordings so the singers can stay on the beat without throwing off the dancers.”
The dancing, choreographed by Dance Manager Cathy Finne, was just intricate enough to be challenging, and the first-graders performed it beautifully.
“It was so exciting to watch the performance magic come to life!” said Ms. Finne. “The spider monkey and butterfly dancers all worked so hard, and it showed in their performances!”
Donovan added: “The dancing was really cool!”
Sharky gives Ms. Lindsay Curry a wave of his fin in appreciation of the stunning lighting and sound that helped make the show so enjoyable. Ms. Barker also gave budding musicians the chance to play rhythm instruments live, adding a special energy to the show.
Jacksonville Country Day School
Located in Jacksonville, FL, Jacksonville Country Day School is a private school for Pre-K 3 through 5th grade. JCDS prepares students for a healthy and productive lifetime of intellectual exploration, character development, and social responsibility.
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