Excitement is building as students at Roscoe Central School District and Livingston Manor Central School District prepare to take the stage for their upcoming production of The Jungle Book. Under the guidance of drama director Kelly Bullis, the young cast has been hard at work memorizing lines, rehearsing songs, and perfecting their performances for what promises to be a lively and entertaining show.

The cast features a mix of experienced and first-time performers, each bringing their own enthusiasm and energy to the stage. Emma Sullivan, an 11th grader, serves as both a student director and an ensemble member. “I love theater,” she said. “I’ve been involved in plays for a long time, both on stage and behind the scenes. But acting is what I really want to do.”

Fifth-grader Savannah Ryder takes on the leading role of Mowgli, the young human raised by wolves. “This is my second play at school, but I’ve done others outside of school at my dance studio,” she shared. “At first, I joined because my friends said it was fun, but now I love it.”

The production also features Tera Ward as Baloo, the lovable bear who sings The Bare Necessities. Tera has been involved in theater for years, performing at the Forestburgh Playhouse in four previous productions. “I just love being on stage,” she said. “The excitement of performing is what drives me.”

Another key character is Shanti, played by Krystal Bautista-Pineda, who serves as the play’s narrator. “This is my second play,” Krystal said. “I was also a narrator in Alice in Wonderland. I like getting to project my voice and bring the story to life. I even practice my solo parts by listening to recordings on YouTube.”

As opening night approaches, the cast is pushing through the challenges of rehearsals, including memorizing lines and perfecting choreography. “We’re a month and a half away, and tomorrow is the big day when we go completely off script,” Bullis told the Democrat. “It’s a little nerve-wracking, but I know they’ll rise to the occasion.”

For many of the students, drama has been more than just an after-school activity—it’s helped them grow in confidence and develop valuable skills. “Drama definitely helps with reading and memorization,” said Bullis. “But it also teaches problem-solving, creativity and teamwork. The students learn how to interpret scenes, experiment with different ways of performing, and make the story engaging for the audience.”

Emma, Savannah, Tera and Krystal all agree that being involved in the play has helped them in other areas of school as well. “At first, I was really nervous,” Emma admitted. “But now, I love it and look forward to every rehearsal.”

With a cast of 26 students from both Roscoe Central School District and Livingston Manor Central School District, the production is a community effort. “We opened up the play to Livingston Manor students a couple of years ago, and this year we have even more joining us,” said Bullis. “It’s great to see the two schools working together, and we’re hoping to have even more participation in the future.”

As opening night draws closer, the students are eager to bring The Jungle Book to life for their audience. “I’m looking forward to the choreography,” Emma said. “We haven’t learned all the dances yet, but I know it’s going to be fun.”

For Tera, the best part is fully embracing her character. “I feel like Baloo suits me really well,” she said. “I love getting to act out his silly personality.”

Savannah is most excited for the moment when everything comes together. “When we finally get to perform, it all just clicks,” she said. “It’s amazing how it all works out in the end.”

When asked what they would say to other students considering drama, the cast had encouraging words. “Don’t be afraid to try it,” Emma said. “I was nervous at first, but now I can’t imagine not doing it.”

“It might seem scary at first, but once you get started, you’ll love it,” added Savannah. “And you’ll make great friends along the way.”

With the performances scheduled for April 4 at 6:30 p.m.  and 5 at 2:30, the students are working hard to make this an unforgettable show. “There’s no feeling quite like stepping on stage and becoming a character,” said Bullis. “I can’t wait for the audience to see what these students have created.”