Middle school students perform patriotic tribute
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RONAN – When Ronan drama instructor and director Rita Tingey wrote “From Sea to Shining Sea” 10 years ago, her main goal was to teach her students a love for America and an appreciation for freedom. That respect was evident during Ronan Middle School’s final performance of the musical Saturday, Jan. 28, when the majority of the cast spoke about family members who have served, or are currently serving, in the military.
Vivid hues of red, white and blue adorned a large backdrop of the Statue of Liberty, as beautifully costumed seventh and eighth-graders took the audience on a ride through American history, highlighting well-known founders and historical figures such as Paul Revere, Martha Washington, Francis Scott Key, Sacajawea and even pirates.
“It’s a wonderful production and a wonderful moment,” Tingey said. “The play is a ‘thank-you’ to those who served and sacrificed for our freedom.”
Tingey wrote the play after a newfound respect for freedom came to her from traveling overseas.
“I gained a greater love and appreciation for those who served for us,” she said.
The play was a first performance for many of Tingey’s students.
“These students are my theatre arts students,” she noted in the program. “They are the ones that learn the backstage aspects of performance.”
Tingey says the students’ desire to be on stage prompted her to act fast, deciding her patriotic play would suit them well.
“I had a script that I had written years ago,” she said. “I resurrected it and rewrote parts to fit the developing talents of this class.”
The play allowed Tingey to do something she loves: teach American history.
“Kids ask questions about the truth of America’s founding and freedom,” Tingey said. “I love that point of discovery when a student is touched by pure knowledge and truth and now will never be the same because of the moment you have shared — teacher and student.”
Tingey says despite the learning curve, the students worked extremely hard to make the show a success.
“The kids worked so hard and are coming along,” she said.
“They are so proud of themselves.”
