GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (GRPS) -- Scholars from City High Middle School recently presented the timeless story of Charlotte’s Web in a production celebrating teamwork, creativity, and friendship. Over an eight-week production period, nearly 80 participants, including both middle and high school scholars, worked together to bring the show to life.
Throughout the story, there are important lessons about loyalty and selflessness. At one point Wilbur reminds the others there are more important things than just thinking about yourself all the time. For Theater Director Jamie Bott, that message carried far beyond the script.
“This wonderful cast and crew have taken this to heart as they have learned each other’s names, discovered new things about their classmates, and made new friends,” Bott said. “In theater, you have to think about others because theater is the ultimate group effort.”
The production was truly scholar-driven. While audiences saw the performers on stage, the work behind the scenes was equally significant. The technical crew was nearly twice the size of the cast, with scholars designing and building the set, constructing costumes, creating props, handling lights and sound, and managing the many details required to transform the stage into a lively farm.
From the barn façade to Charlotte’s web, much of what the audience experienced was built by the scholars themselves.
Community partners also played an important role in this production. Volunteers from Lake Michigan Credit Union joined scholars in the set shop to lend a hand wherever it was needed. They helped braid Charlotte’s web, painted set pieces, and assisted the construction crew with placing boards for the barn façade.
The theater program also partnered with Sparrows Coffee, a regular supporter of City’s Theater Program. The café created a custom beverage, Aunt Edith’s Caramel Latte, inspired by the show. Two dollars from every drink sold were donated back to the theater program.
With nearly 80 scholars working together across different grade levels and roles, City’s production of Charlotte’s Web reflected the story’s central message: when people look out for one another, remarkable things can happen.
Building on that same spirit of friendship and collaboration, City’s next production is already on the horizon. In May, 6th through 8th scholars from City High Middle School and Center for Economicology will present High School Musical. Auditions will take place March 16 and 17, and performances are scheduled for May 8 and 9.
For more information about the theater program at City, please contact Jamie Bott at jamie.bott@cityptsa.com.
