"Step-step-step-kick, step-step-step-kick!"

Those were the directions from Jessica Horzempa and Bryan Davidson to South Fayette Middle School students last Tuesday as they attempted to perfect their footwork during a rehearsal of "N.Y.C.," a show-stopping song in the musical "Annie Jr."

"This dance is really hard and the song is really hard," he said. "Dance right across the living room."

About 120 students in fifth through eighth grades will perform "Annie Jr.," an abbreviated version of the classic Broadway musical, on April 21 at 7 p.m. and April 22 at 2 p.m.

The musical features classic songs such as "Tomorrow," "Hard Knock Life" and "Easy Street."

"All of the Annie' favorites are in there," Horzempa, middle school music teacher, said.

"The kids are working really hard to prepare. Trying to get them to sing and dance well at the same time is something they're really excited about."

Last week, students rehearsed scenes of Annie's introduction to the servants at the home of Mr. Warbucks.

The show stars Milena Iafrate as Annie, Erika Levine as Miss Hannigan, Christian DeDi as Warbucks and Sarah Franjione as Grace.

Horzempa is enjoying the opportunity to direct the musical during her first year teaching at South Fayette.

Originally posted here:
Coaching young actors to sing and dance well at the same time