It’s going to be a show like no other at Legacy of Educational Excellence (LEE) High School! Friday night, American Sign Language (ASL) students will sign along during the campus performance of ‘Matilda the Musical.’
Alicia Ueker’s ASL students and Co-Theatre Director Kasey Korth-Piles debuted their collaboration last year during a performance of Mamma Mia. It was such a hit, they decided to bring it back for Matilda.
International School of the Americas (ISA) students Mariella Hotten, Keadryn Remke, Kai Encino and Stephanie Carreon are part of the group that will be signing just left of center stage. They all enjoy the process of learning and interpreting songs, whether it’s on stage or in class.
“Interpreting songs has helped us accelerate to where we are now,” said Hotten. “It’s music interpretation, vocabulary, movement, and emotion all while signing. You can really express yourself and it’s nice to be able to provide accessibility to people in the crowd.”
ASL has deeply impacted all of their lives. It’s even inspired Remke and Encino to pursue careers as professional ASL interpreters. Their passion will be on full display Friday night. They’ve spent weeks practicing each song and are excited to see it all come together as two performances in perfect harmony.
“So much collaboration goes into this performance,” said Remke. “We’ve learned a lot from last year and have found ways to improve the overall experience. We’re really excited for everyone to see it.”
Matilda is a true collaboration between four programs on the LEE campus as STEM Academy, ISA, LEE and North East School of the Arts (NESA) students all work together to put on an unforgettable show.
LEE’s ASL students will be signing during the show on Friday, Jan. 24, at 7 p.m. You don’t want to miss it! Book your tickets now!
