Page 35 - November 2019 proof 7 Castle Pines Connection

CastlePinesConnection.com
35
Meet American Academy’s
“Matilda”
By Julie Matuszewski; photos courtesy of American Academy
American Academy Performing Arts (AAPA) eighth grade student, Ella Smith, has landed the title role of Matilda in the Parker Arts and Sasquatch Productions live performances of “Matilda, the Musical”.
Ella enrolled in AAPA certi cation program
in 2016 but has been performing since
second grade for American Academy (AA) productions. She rst uttered onto the stage in her debut as Tinkerbell in AA’s production of “Peter Pan.” Since her debut, Ella has remained actively committed to developing
her craft with roles such as Cindy Lou Who in “Seussical,” Flounder in “The Little Mermaid,” Miss Flannery in “Thoroughly Modern Millie” and most recently as Sharpay in “High School Musical.”
In addition, Ella works tirelessly in dance classes, choir and theatre classes. She is also an active member of AA Junior Thespian Troupe #88842, participating with annual thespian conferences and adjudications. Troupe #88842 is a group of civic-minded student volunteers, who seek to in uence AA school culture in
a positive manner while promoting the value and integrity of the performing arts. Members host and participate in a variety of activities, including drama days, eld trips, community outreach and weekly lunch club meetings.
American Academy student Ella Smith shines as bright and con dent o stage as she does on stage.
Ella has clearly worked hard to earn her place in the spotlight as Matilda. Her talents can be seen at the Parker Arts Culture and Events Center (PACE) January 17 through February 9. When purchasing tickets, be sure to look for performances featuring Ella Smith as Matilda. For additional information, visit www.parkerarts.org.
Tricks for Treats
By Julie Matuszewski; photos courtesy of Timber Trail Elementary
Legacy Village at Castle Pines residents enjoy handing out candy while the ghosts and ghouls practice their trick or treat manners.
Bundled up in their favorite Halloween costumes Timber Trail Elementary (TTE) preschool students and rst graders enjoyed a walking eld trip to Legacy Village
of Castle Pines. The eld trip was fun, not only for the students, but also for the residents of Legacy Village.
Residents had the halls decorated with Halloween balloons and bowls lled with favorite Halloween treats. As students entered, resident faces lit up and beamed as students passed by trick-or-treating.
The walking eld trip gave students the opportunity to practice their trick or treat skills and manners. Please and thank you are the still the magic words. TTE feels blessed to have Legacy Village as a part of our community. This was just one of many more activities to come for these students and residents. In the New Year, TTE is hoping to partner with Legacy Village on a buddy reading program.
Do you have a teen who wants to offer a service for hire to the community?
Send us his/her name, phone number, age, and info about the service.
Email editor@ castlepinesconnection.com