The Bologna Performing Arts Center was full of holiday cheer on Nov. 20, as over 2,100 enthusiastic students filled the theater to experience sold-out performances of Junie B. in Jingle Bells, Batman Smells, presented by Casa Mañana Regional Theater.
Students traveled to the BPAC from several counties across the Delta, including Bolivar, Coahoma, East Tallahatchie, Leflore, Sunflower and Washington. In an effort to make the performance a quality educational experience, the BPAC Arts Education Department supplied all teachers and families with an educational supplement which included several learning activities designed to reinforce curriculum connections both before and after the show.
Based on the wildly popular children’s book series, Junie B. in Jingle Bells, Batman Smells featured the favorite first grader and all the other students in ‘Room One’ as they hastily made preparations for the class holiday party and encountered the difficult task of choosing the perfect Secret Santa gift. This spirited production delivered a heart-warming message about the importance of giving during the holiday season. Both students and adults left the theater with a renewed sense of the true meaning for the holidays.
The Bologna’s School-Time Matinee Series will present two more educational performances in 2014. Five Little Monkeys, a zany play based on the popular children’s book, will be performed Jan. 31 at 9:30 and 11:30 a.m. and is recommended for pre-school through 2nd graders. Tickets are still available for the 11:30 performance. Black Violin, a unique musical concert that combines the elements of classical and hip hop music, is scheduled for March 4 at 9:30 and 11:30 a.m. and is recommended for 2nd grade and up. Please call the BPAC Arts Education office at 662-846-4844 to reserve tickets.
Photo: Students gather by the Christmas tree in the BPAC lobby after seeing Junie B. in Jingle Bells, Batman Smells.
