Colegio Karl C. Parrish was “Off to see the Wizard!” : Promoting the love for performing arts in young people.
Already a renowned school for our leading academic programs, KCP showcased its artistic talents on Friday, April 27th, 2018, with the beloved musical classic “The Wizard of Oz.”
Students in grades 3-12th acted singed, danced, and performed on stage for the School and public to enjoy. The occasion providing more than 60 of our children with the opportunity to show their skills, in our auditorium fit for 500 people and equipped with professional audio and video systems. Attendees enjoyed a pleasant time with family and friends featuring the best of the School’s musical talents.
Directed by Emily Martin, English teacher at KCP, the musical show delighted our senses with its original choreography, performed by a cast of students from grades 3-5, playing the role of famous characters such as Munchkins, Poppies and Jitterbugs. The main cast wore beautiful tailored costumes and had professional makeup to help transform them into these beloved characters. With a scheme of lights and sound system designed by experts, our young musical promises presented one of the most important events of our school year. “For years I have been blown away by the talent and dedication of KCP students, and their love of the arts,” says Emily Martin. Working at Colegio Karl C. Parrish for four years, Martin felt inspired by the students and by the city when she began setting up the musical. “ Barranquilla is a city that loves dancing, and music, and so many of the students are interested in the arts; I knew this was the perfect place to direct a show.”
The principal cast contained 10 incredibly talented and hardworking 8th grade students, all of whom showed constant enthusiasm, and diligent work ethic since rehearsals began in January. María José Fernández with her angelic voice and incredible acting talent shines as Dorothy Gale, the musical’s lead. Ana Carolina Pérez, Oriana Lambogolia, and Nicolle Amastha had audiences laughing in the aisles with their comical, and heartfelt performances as Scarecrow, Tin-girl and Lion. Sofia Jattin, and Paulina Sánchez also delighted and terrified theatre goers as the Good and Wicked Witches in stunning gowns. Stealing the show with their comedic timing Daniel Carbo, Salomon Salcedo, Thomas Ostbye, Alex Quessep as the Wizard, and Emerald City guards had everyone enjoying a memorable evening.
While the story of the Wizard of Oz is well known, the music of Colegio Karl C. Parrish´s performance may be unrecognizable. “ We wanted to keep the story classic, but the music had to be fresh, and exciting,” explains Emily Martin. “After years of listening to the school’s rock and instrumental bands, we knew KCP’s music department would do a fantastic job arranging and performing the songs.” With modernized arrangements by our Music Teacher Larry Marthe, and Senior Felipe González, the beautiful live musical performance had audiences tapping their toes and singing along to classics like “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” and “Off to See the Wizard,” but with a fresh jazz and funk twist, accompanied by powerful voices.
