Students participating in the Freeport School District's summer arts academy presented their first live performance since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic before an audience of district administrators including Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kishore Kuncham, family members and community residents presenting Summer Stock 2021. The musical program featured students, who had enhanced their musical and artistic talents during the district's summer arts academy.
"Freeport Public Schools has always offered summer programs; however, this year was truly unique. Approximately 1,500 students participated in this year's Summer Academy which offered students 30 different programs to choose from, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kishore Kuncham said. "Each of these programs, which were provided at no cost to our families, offered students the opportunity to expand their academic knowledge, enhance their musical and artistic talents, build upon their athletic skills, interact with their classmates and teachers, and simply enjoy themselves in a safe and nurturing environment. Our administrators, teachers and student-interns did an outstanding job leading up to the performance of Summer Stock 2021. Their enthusiasm was contagious and the students performing did an outstanding job. I'm sure I can say with confidence that everyone who participated in this year's Summer Academy is looking forward to returning again next summer."
Under sunny skies, the audience enthusiastically applauded as the band performed "Big Beat Boogie" and "Rock Element" by Linda Bange and "Let It Rock" arranged by Roland Barrett; the chorus sang "Dream On" and "I Wanna Rock" both arranged by Mark Mrymer; the orchestra played "Unknown Sound" by Nicholas Pereira, a Caroline G. Atkinson student; "Bottom of the Ninth" by Bob Phillips, "Rockin' Together" by Linda Bange, "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star" and "Mary Had a Little Lamb" and the dance interns and students performed routines to a medley of rock music including "Walk This Way", "Ice Ice Baby" and "We Will Rock You".
"This was a creative summer full of learning opportunities and we are so grateful to have come together to celebrate learning through the arts," said Director of the Arts and Community Relations Ruth Briedenbach. "We are so full of joy for the sights and sound of arts education. Incredible team work made this a summer to remember with great experiences for our students and our staff."
Following the student performances, several students performed with musical guest Napoleon Revel-Bey and the Rhythm Kings Band which brought everyone to their feet.
To view the performance: Click Here
Summer Arts Academy Visual Arts Presentations
Visual Arts Grades 4-5
Visual Arts Grades 6-8