RMS brings Aristocats to life

Disney movie fans have something to look forward to April 5. Russellville Middle School drama students are bringing Disney’s The Aristocats to life in a 30-minute musical performance.

The will begin at 6:30 p.m. in the Russellville City Schools Auditorium; tickets are $5.

This is the first time RCS has staged a musical made up of a cast of sixth-graders, according to instructor Emily Rush. Some of the students have had minor parts in other RCS performing arts productions, but this is the first musical showcasing only sixth-graders and their talents.

“It’s a great stepping stone for them before they get into the junior high and high school classes,” Rush said.

While most RCS productions last about 90 minutes, Rush said show shorter 30-minute show gives her students a good introduction to what is expected in the upper level classes without overwhelming them.

“They need to learn how plays and musicals work and what will be expected of them later. It makes it easier for them for next year,” she explained.

Even though it’s the first musical that rests largely on their shoulders, the students said they are excited.

“I’ve watched several of the shows, and I’ve always wanted to be in one,” said Kaitlin Speck, who will portray the Aristocat kitten Marie.

Ella Green, who will be playing mother cat Duchess, is not new to the acting world. She has had parts in other productions and has familial influences.

“I have an older sister in the eighth grade who is in this class, and that inspired me to join,” Green said.

Devin Jones, who will play Thomas O’Malley, the alley cat, and Martin Tomas, who will play Edgar Balthazar the butler, both said they like this musical and acting in general because it allows them a different way to express themselves.

“I think it will be a good show. If we work together as a team, we can do this,” Tomas said.

Rush said the learning process and rehearsals have been a fun experience, and she urged everyone to attend the show.