"Every day I come to work loving what I do and doing what I love with some of the best students that I could ask for," said Kennesaw Mountain Director of Theatre Dawn Parker. "My students are so dedicated to what they do both on and off the stage, and any recognition they can receive for their hard work and talent is so deserving!"
Kennesaw Mountain High School's Drama Department will present a production of Disney's Alice in Wonderland Jr. as part of the second annual Disney on Broadway School of Excellence Program. KMHS's Drama is one of 21 winners selected for the program nationwide.
A partnership of Education Theatre Foundation, Disney Theatrical Group, and Music Theatre International, the Disney on Broadway School of Excellence Program recognizes middle and high schools for their exceptional student-led involvement in theatre production. It looks for schools that demonstrate creativity, leadership, and student engagement. Winning schools receive a grant for licensing and materials to produce a Disney musical in the 2025-2026 school year, plus exclusive webinars with industry professionals.
"The legacy these students are leaving for those after them is strong and something I am very proud of. As their director, I will always be their number-one fan!" Director Parker said with a smile.
The KMHS Drama program is very student-centric and led by students. The actors on stage give their time and talent to tell incredible stories and bring their characters to life. Students handle the technical elements of every performance, building and painting the sets, making props, running lights and sound, and assisting with choreography as part of the Technical Theatre program. KMHS's Transition Academy is also integral, laundering costumes after performances, organizing spaces, and helping with many other tasks.
Being one of 21 schools chosen nationally is a big honor, and the KMHS Drama team hopes it will bring recognition and awareness to the phenomenal theatre and drama work that is being done at Kennesaw and many other Cobb County schools. Supporting theatre in schools is an easy and affordable way to give back to the community, local arts, and education. In addition, the Alice in Wonderland JR show will be offered as a field trip for Cobb elementary and middle school students as part of the Young Audience children's theatre program.
"We are so fortunate to be supported not only by our amazing parents and Booster Board but also by our administrators, particularly Principal Stark, and the Fine Arts Department and staff. We are truly a family at KMHS Fine Arts, and I look forward to an amazing year and celebrating this accomplishment," said Director Parker about the upcoming production season.
