JDL goes Disney: A delightful showcase

JDL goes Disney: A delightful showcase

HERCULES MUSES

By JV Maloto

It’s the circle of life , and it moves us all … I could not stop singing this song after I watched the JDL GOES DISNEY showcase that was presented by the students of the Josie de Leon School of Performing Arts recently at the Port Credit Auditorium in Mississauga.

To be honest, when I got invited to this showcase, I was expecting the traditional ‘student recital ‘ when one anticipates a student singing after the next …but I was moved by every single performance that at the end of the show. I was hoping to see more of it and just like the others kids who watched that night, I also wanted to cry and did not want to leave the venue.

PRECIOUS AS MOANA

The show started with a powerful rendition from JDL student Alumni, Maria Salac who sang “Circle of Life” as Rafiki in presenting Baby Simba to the gathered animals symbolizing the birth of the new King. The kids were all dressed up as animals, and it was truly a moving number to watch.

When I got the chance to talk to Maria, she said she was so happy to be part of this production and being able to share her talent not only to the full packed audience but being able to provide support and mentorship to all the JDL kids as she was once in their shoes.

Other segments presented that night were musical numbers from Pocahontas, Mulan, The Little Mermaid, Aladdin, Tangled, High school Musical, Beauty and The Beast, Frozen and Moana. I saw first hand the joy of parents in seeing their kids perform that evening, once parent said “ I am glad I enrolled Liam in the JDL Performing Arts program, I saw how much he developed in his confidence on stage. He always looks forward in attending every class” says Glenda Diaz.

The showcase ended with a few words from the Founder and CEO of JDL Performing Arts, Miss Josie de Leon, with tears of joy thanking her dear mentors, Miss Shay Marquez (Program Director), Maryanne Del Puerto, Maria Cabillan, Charlene Dorland, Abi Natnat, Nikki Natnat and Zoe Virola for doing a job well done.

JDL Performing Arts teaches kids ages 4 years and older, singing, dancing and acting with branches in Mississauga, Scarborough and the newly opened Winnipeg.
Kudos to the JDL Performing Arts team and here’s looking forward to the next showcase!

FROZEN

POCAHONTAS