Encore Richard Kluge School: Shule Ya Msingi Ya Waigizaji Wa Sanaa

(Swahili Translated to English: Encore Richard Kluge Elementary School of the Arts Cast Members)

Grade 3 teacher Monifa Lacking and Principal Keshum Willingham were excited to share the incredible talents of the students of Richard Kluge Elementary. Kluge Elementary Cast and Staff Production Crew had a seamless production of, “The Lion King Kids.” The singing and acting by the children was exceptional.

Principal Willingham was pleasantly excited to share his thoughts on the production, the staff and especially his students.

“We had about sixty cast members and production team participants, a huge undertaking!” Principal Willingham continued. “The students auditioned right after our Black History program in February, and from that moment, everyone gave their all. The staff adjusted schedules, stayed late, and worked tirelessly so rehearsals could happen.

“I asked every student and parent to commit fully — to sign the contract and see it through. And they did. Their dedication made this production possible.

“The planning was extensive, but it paid off beautifully. We even had understudies for major roles Alea Green, a fifth grader, handled sound, and Mrs. Stevens guided a fifth-grade understudy for the stage crew. Our choir featured the youngest voices, from kindergarten through second grade, while the older students, grades three to five, took on the lead roles.

Seeing them all shine on stage reminded me why we do what we do — to give our students the chance to dream big and perform with pride.”

Richard Kluge Elementary of the Arts was designated as a school of the arts since its inception. Last year, the school joined the Turnaround Arts MKE partnership with other local schools; Roosevelt, Lancaster, Sherman, and Milwaukee School of the Arts.

Before the beginning of the show, the room buzzed with excitement. Parents filled the seats, smiling proudly as they waited to see their kids shine.

Once the music started, the choir’s voices carried us straight into the Pridelands. Five students on the right side of the stage kept the story moving, guiding everyone through the wilds of Kenya and Tanzania. The director’s scene choices were spot-on capturing the heart of The Lion King.

The crew’s planning was clever too. Props were hidden behind rocks for quick scene changes, keeping the action smooth and snappy. And the costumes? Purely amazing, bright, detailed, and full of personality. Each headpiece and outfit brought the animals to life, turning the stage into a burst of color and creativity.

It was a show that roared with pride and every student looked like they belonged in the spotlight.

Show director Connie Gordan’s energy was evident as the cast took their places on the stage for the “Talk Back”. “This year felt different — bigger, brighter, and more student ‑ driven,” Director Gordan said with a smile. “I was thrilled to introduce our entire arts team and highlight how our students stepped into leadership roles. They weren’t just performers; they were planners, problem‑solvers, and creators.”

She explained that rehearsals became part of the daily rhythm — reading scripts, singing songs, and learning stage cues together. “I told them that discipline means finishing what you start. That’s not just theater — that’s life,” she added.

Director Gordan also shared how the cast learned bits of African language and explored the deeper meaning of the Circle of Life — understanding how wisdom and strength flow from those who came before us.

“Partnering with Turnaround Arts MKE has been incredible,” she said. “It’s opened doors for our students to express themselves, lead with confidence, and see how art connects us all.”

The producer, Principal Willingham, came to extend his thanks and congratulations to the cast. And as an added bonus, Mr. Willingham presented the director, Ms. Gordan, with the “Teacher of the Year Award” and explained that “a true educational leader has the best interest of everyone involved.”

Kluge’s Musical Rendition of “The Lion King Kids,” Principal Willingham’s said that overall the most important thing he wants want families and students to remember about this experience is “I want them to remember that students are capable – they start early – starts as early as elementary…the students can shine when they are giving the opportunity!”

Indeed the students shined bright as Simba and Nyla in the Circle of Life. Great Job on the singing, acting, and flow of the production. It took us from the gym into Africa’s Prideland for sure. Congratulations to the Lion King cast, staff, parents, Turnaround Arts MKE, and Cream City Links for a job well done.

Community, make sure you check out Richard Kluge Elementary of the Arts. They are receiving donations to cover the cast shirts and to help with the next production.
“Encore Kluge Elementary of the Arts – hope you enjoyed your first cast party!”