On Jan. 14 and 16, the Pleasanton Elementary Drama Troupe performed “The Spirit of Christmas” at the Douglas Williamson Performing Arts Center.
As director/teacher Dawn Murray explained, “The spirit of Christmas exists year round. When we truly share our heart we share Christmas. That is a wonderful goal for every day of the year. This Christmas play, in January, emphasized this point in delightfully funny ways. Historical facts and figures intermingled with puns, anecdotes and corny jokes. Laughter warmed the hearts at each of the three performances.”
The cast and crew included: Aly Nelson, Anna Haiduk, Arwen Badilla, Brileigh Strange, Cameron Chavez, Emm Bernal, Gretchen Caraway, Isabella Gutierrez, Jade Almendarez, Joaquin Acuff, Joaquin Zuniga, Katie Avery, Kayliana Gomez, Layla Guerrero, Lilley Conroy, Lucia Guerra, Lyriq Murrell, Maddie White, Mikenna Maxwell, Miles Niemietz, Nikolas Hoerman, Patyn Swan, Raedon Davila, Reagan Hilburn and Ryan Alderman.
The evening also featured students dancing in several light shows, with choreography by Robyn White and Janna Valadez. The sleigh was done by Robyn, Olivia and Maddie White.
Murray also thanks Janna Valadez, Amy Lambert, Robyn White and Olivia White for their assistance in a myriad of ways: costumes, rehearsals, choreography and more.
“Having to postpone the play due to my cancer radiation was difficult and without these lovely ladies it would have been impossible. Thanks,” Murray said.
Along with PISD Superintendent Dr. Matthew Mann and the school board, Murray also thanks Elementary Principal Erica Bernal and all of the elementary staff and administration for supporting their fine arts programs and for bringing the students, over 1,100, to see the performances.
Murray especially thanks her husband Charles Murray for every kind of support imaginable and his assistance in helping her get it all done, the PISD custodians for all that they do, all volunteers and the parents, for sharing their talented children.
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