MUSICVILLE
Part of the Musical Theatre Kids Workshop Series at Star Center Theatre
Directed by Sydni Charity Solomon
Musicville teaches young actors the foundations of musical storytelling, how to connect rhythm, movement, and character to bring a scene to life. I chose this show as part of our Musical Theatre Kids Workshop Series to strengthen our students’ sense of musicality through choreography. At the time, dance was a major challenge for many of our young performers, so I designed this process to get them on their feet—and keep them there.
The musical follows Maiden Melody and Radical Rhythm as they journey through different lands (Doo-Wop, Opera, and Tango) to save the town of Musicville from the Sorcerer of Silence. To offer more individualized attention and play to the strengths of our students, we divided the lands by age group. For example, the Doo-Wops were our K–2 performers, while the Tangueros were primarily middle schoolers and dancers ready for more advanced movement.
We gave them a toolbox—jazz squares, cheating out, lifting text—and wove those tools into the blocking and choreography to help the skills settle in their bodies. I often stepped in as assistant choreographer (and choreographed one of the numbers myself), which meant I quite literally never sat down during rehearsals. The movement-heavy nature of the show pushed our students to grow in confidence, coordination, and performance energy.
“Fun, Fun, Fun” –
Choreography Process
As a certified dancer LAST, I approach choreography with zero formal training but a whole lot of intention. This number for K–2 students was set to “Fun, Fun, Fun” and focused on rhythm, clarity, and clean formations. I leaned into sharp, direct movements and added lots of clapping to help the kids hear and feel the beat. Since musicality was a key focus for this age group, structure was important—but I always build in space for improv, giving students the freedom to explore their individuality and make creative choices within the choreography. Even little movers can be bold storytellers.
Soloist Lenina David brought the house down with this number, anchoring the choreography with charisma and confidence that lit up the stage.
Opening Number
Choreographed by Xavier Ayala-Vermont
The opening number was choreographed by Xavier Ayala-Vermont, a skilled tap dancer and fellow youth performer. The cast looked up to him—not just because of his talent, but because he was one of their own. His presence in the room helped bridge the gap between guidance and inspiration.
Together, we focused on helping the kids find flow in their movement—encouraging them to elongate their motions and move with intention. While individual expression was key, we also emphasized synchronization, teaching them to listen to each other and move as one. Under Xavier’s choreography, the ensemble rose to the challenge with grace, energy, and real growth.
“Songs of Silence” –
Choreographed by Aaron Hardaway
Songs of Silence was easily my favorite land to explore. The irony was rich—kids singing about craving silence, all while moving through bold, expressive choreography. I leaned hard into that juxtaposition, using sharp dynamic shifts to echo the tension between noise and stillness, chaos and calm.
We were lucky to have a color guard performer choreograph this number—someone who lives for precision and demanded it in the best way. This group was made up of our dancers, many of whom were just beginning to dip their toes into acting and singing. We asked them to stretch past the familiar and step into something layered and theatrical. It threw them off balance—in a glorious way. Watching them navigate that discomfort and rise to the challenge was one of the most rewarding parts of the process.
XOXO, Your Biggest Cheerleader
After their final performance, we celebrated the only way that made sense—with full-out flips and foam pits. My expectations are high, but I’m also your biggest cheerleader, and I’ll throw down at the trampoline park to prove it. This cast gave everything on stage, and this post-show outing was a chance to let loose, bond, and bask in what they built together. Just don’t challenge me unless you’re ready to lose. I’m competitive and committed.
