Students dance to the beat of a Broadway drum

A little taste of Broadway comes to Carson City this weekend before heading to a more tropical climate.

Western Nevada Performing Arts will present three shows of "Kids on Broadway," featuring dance routines set to the music of several well-known Broadway shows. Thirty-five children ranging in age from 5 to 18 will dance to music from shows including "Annie," "Cats," "Peter Pan" and "Hairspray."

"I thought it would be good for them to grow up to have more information about musicals and musical theater," said Gina Kaskie-Davis, artistic director and choreographer.

The dancers have been rehearsing two shows. One was performed on the Reno Hilton Stage in December and their current show will be showcased in two performances on a Carnival Cruise ship in late March.

"They have been working for five months to get the two shows ready. They have learned all about the different musicals," Kaskie-Davis said. "I like watching the excitement that they have for the music."

While the children say they enjoy the entire show, one musical number was the overwhelming favorite.

"I like doing 'Hairspray' because of the character I get to play," Jessica Shull, 14, of Carson City, said.

Because of the different routines involved, the dancers have between two and five costumes changes during the show.

"The hardest part is the nerves when you are going to go on stage and getting your costumes together and ready when you need them," Whitney Giron, 12, of Carson City, said.

The group will stage three performances of the musical at the Carson City Community Center, 851 E. William St., beginning tonight. The shows open at 7 p.m. except for Sunday's 2 p.m. matinee.

"This weekend is strictly for the family and the community to show them what we will be doing on the ship," Kaskie-Davis said.

Tickets are available at the community center box office for $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and children between ages 5 and 13 and $5 for children under age 5.

Despite the many practice hours, costume changes and preparations in addition to the search for sponsorships, when the children take the stage, Kaskie-Davis said it's all worthwhile.

"The joy that the kids have in sharing their whole on-stage experience with the audience," Kaskie-Davis said. "That's the best part."

-- Contact reporter Jarid Shipley at jshipley@nevadaappeal.com or 881-1217.

If you go

What: "Kids on Broadway" dance performance

When: 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday with a 2 p.m. Sunday matinee

Where: Carson City Community Center, 851 E. William St.

Call: 250-4806

Cost: $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and children ages 5-13 and $5 for children under 5. Tickets will be available at the door.