After months of rehearsals, students at Burlington Elementary took to the stage Friday, March 7, to perform “Madagascar: A Musical Adventure Jr.” before a packed gymnasium of classmates, teachers, and parents.
Since November, the main cast, supporting actors and crew have worked diligently to memorize lines, design costumes, and transform the gym into a theatrical setting. With support from staff members, volunteers, and parents, the production unfolded seamlessly.
As the lights flickered on, the gym buzzed with excitement. The four main characters—Marty the zebra, Alex the lion, Gloria the hippo and Melman the giraffe—took center stage, surrounded by an energetic ensemble of “zoosters.” These supporting cast members, dressed in animal costumes from head to toe, brought the show to life with vibrant and expressive musical numbers. Iconic characters such as Mort, King Julien and the mischievous penguins also made memorable appearances.
Directed by Burlington Elementary staff members Tyra Toepfer and Beth Legg, the production was a testament to the dedication of students, educators and families. “This is our 14th year doing this, and it’s such a fun and creative experience that brings everyone together. Watching the kids perform and seeing their confidence grow throughout the process is always the highlight of my year. It’s not just about the performance—it’s about the core memories made, the lessons learned, and the joy of creating something special as a team!” said Tyra Toepfer.
When reflecting on the event, Principal Erica Bowman said, “Tyra and her team provide an amazing opportunity for students to experience performing arts, and be a part of a production on stage and behind the stage. It’s awesome to see how hard our kids work and how excited they are to perform. From learning and practicing their lines at home and during their lunch and recess times, to singing their hearts out on stage, they showed incredible dedication, especially for elementary-age students. It’s inspiring to see their confidence grow and their excitement was palpable the closer we got to the performance.”
From the elaborate costumes to the spirited performances, “Madagascar: A Musical Adventure Jr.” showcased not only the students’ talent but also the power of teamwork and creativity. As the cast took their final bow, applause filled the gym—then, as “I Like to Move It” began to play, students erupted into an energetic dance, bringing the celebration to life. The production was more than just a show–it was a joyful display of community spirit and creativity that will leave lasting memories for all involved.