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THE CAST OF MIDCOAST YOUTH THEATER’S summer production of “Disney’s The Lion King JR.” is seen with Michael Wingfield, a performer and teacher with more than 25 years experience in the rhythm and song of the African New World. At a recent rehearsal, Wingfield taught the cast how to use various instruments including conga drums, cowbells, shekere, voice and dance movements to express the rhythms of Africa. Wingfield, originally from Massachusetts and a resident of Portland, has traveled the country leading workshops in schools and giving public performances. He was also a guest lecturer at Bowdoin College. Performing credits include Flora Purim & Airto, Sun Ra, Richie Havens and the Portland Symphony Orchestra. The all middle school-aged Midcoast Youth Theater cast, including more than 30 local students will present “Disney’s The Lion King JR.” at the Orion Performing Arts Center, Topsham on Thursday and Friday at 7 p.m. and Saturday, at 2 p.m. The 60-minute musical, written for youth performers, is based on the Broadway production directed by Julie Taymor and the 1994 Disney film. Show sponsors include Androscoggin Animal Hospital and Cook’s Lobster and Ale House. Tickets are $12 for adults and $10 for seniors/students and can be purchased at the door or online at midcoastyouththeater.org.
THE CAST OF MIDCOAST YOUTH THEATER’S summer production of “Disney’s The Lion King JR.” is seen with Michael Wingfield, a performer and teacher with more than 25 years experience in the rhythm and song of the African New World. At a recent rehearsal, Wingfield taught the cast how to use various instruments including conga drums, cowbells, shekere, voice and dance movements to express the rhythms of Africa. Wingfield, originally from Massachusetts and a resident of Portland, has traveled the country leading workshops in schools and giving public performances. He was also a guest lecturer at Bowdoin College. Performing credits include Flora Purim & Airto, Sun Ra, Richie Havens and the Portland Symphony Orchestra. The all middle school-aged Midcoast Youth Theater cast, including more than 30 local students will present “Disney’s The Lion King JR.” at the Orion Performing Arts Center, Topsham on Thursday and Friday at 7 p.m. and Saturday, at 2 p.m. The 60-minute musical, written for youth performers, is based on the Broadway production directed by Julie Taymor and the 1994 Disney film. Show sponsors include Androscoggin Animal Hospital and Cook’s Lobster and Ale House. Tickets are $12 for adults and $10 for seniors/students and can be purchased at the door or online at midcoastyouththeater.org.

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