KALAHEO — The Kalaheo School Sunshine Express takes its musical production to the next level, starting Friday when doors to “Elf The Musical Jr.” open.
Under the direction of Laine Griffith, the student group of third-, fourth- and fifth-grade students, and a lot of parent volunteers, combine elements of theater with music in the school’s cafeteria. Performances are scheduled for Friday and Saturday, and Dec. 15 and 16.
The public got a sampling of the offering the Saturday after Thanksgiving when the Sunshine Express won top honors for singing and talent during the Kauai Christmas Parade sponsored by the Kauai Government Employees Federal Credit Union, the Kauai Teachers Federal Credit Union and Kukui Grove Center.
Based on the Will Ferrell movie “Elf,” Buddy the Elf seeks out his true identity during the holidays in a hilarious comedy that is suited for family viewing. Admission tickets are available at the door, or by calling 332-6801.
The school is accepting donations for a silent auction table which will be held at all four of the public performances. Sunshine Express is also accepting food and drink donations for the concession stand.
“We’re trying to raise funds so the Sunshine Express can purchase wireless microphones which will be used by the Kalaheo School students for years to come,” said Chery Bechard, a Sunshine Express parent volunteer. “We currently have a Grove Farm matching-grant challenge where we have until Dec. 14 to raise $1,000. If we raise the funds, Grove Farm will match that amount, which means $2,000.”
Contributions for the silent auction, food concession and the equipment can be dropped off at the school’s office, or mailed to Laine Griffith, Kalaheo School, 4400 Maka Road, Kalaheo, HI 96741.
“Elf The Musical Jr.” represents Griffith’s 22nd year of leading the Kalaheo School students.
Following the public performances, Sunshine Express will also take Buddy and his cast on the road to perform for kupuna at the Wilcox Adult Day Care in Lihue, and the Samuel Mahelona Memorial Hospital in Kapaa.
