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by Sarah Gerass

Students at Edward Town Middle School are excited about their school's musical production of "Beauty and the Beast."

"Beauty and the Beast" is the story of a girl who struggles with being different in her town, and wants to escape the "poor provincial life" in which she lives. She eventually meets Beast and learns not to judge by appearance, for beauty is found within.

"It is important to have a yearly musical because it gives students the opportunity to enjoy theater and participate," explained musical director Ken Fick.

Students agree that the musical has given them an opportunity to spend time with friends and meet new people.

"You get to express yourself through music," said student actor Tyler DiMarco.

Students have been rehearsing after school and on weekends since November. According to the directors, rehearsals have been going well.

"Rehearsals are rocky at the start, but in the end, it always comes together," said Fick.

"Rehearsals have been fun," agreed drama director Maria Zaleski, "but now it's crunch time."

Students' enthusiasm has been clear during rehearsals.

"Being up on stage is my favorite part," said lead student actress, Cierra Mount Pleasant. "It's what I've dreamed of doing."

Students at Edward Town Middle School hope to share their excitement for the musical and anticipate sold-out performances.

"We try to choose family fun musicals for the whole community - young, and old," said Fick.

Drama directors Ashley Wood and Maria Zaleski agree that "Beauty and the Beast" has a great story line.

"It shows what ETMS is all about - teamwork, community involvement and school spirit!" said Wood.

The ETMS production of "Beauty and the Beast" will be held on Friday, Jan. 27, and Saturday, Jan. 28, at 7 p.m. in the high school auditorium. Tickets are on sale now for $7 and reserved seating is available until Jan. 20. To pre-order tickets, call Zaleski at 215-3150, ext. 2910.

Sarah Gerass is an eighth-grader at Edward Town Middle School.