Curtains Up on a New Year of BIS Theater

Community support makes it possible for students to be the stars of

two unforgettable productions in 2025-26.

The stage is set for another exciting year of theater at Burlingame Intermediate School (BIS). Each year, thanks to generous community support, BCE helps fund the school’s fall play and spring musical, giving students the chance to shine both on stage and behind the scenes.

This fall, BIS will present The Knights of the Rad Table on October 23, 24, and 25. In this playful spin on the legend of King Arthur, two modern-day teens, Gwen and Artie, are suddenly transported back to the age of chivalry. What follows is a rollicking adventure filled with bumbling knights, a tea-drinking dragon, and the villainous Morgan La Fey. Full of comedy and surprises, this farcical retelling promises fun for the whole family. With a mix of slapstick humor, quirky characters, and adventurous twists, this play includes plenty of laughs for elementary school-age audiences, too.

The fall play will be directed by BIS Counselor Jennifer Ibos, with Ginelle Ibos serving as assistant director, and is based on a book by Pat Lydersen. Rehearsals kick off in September, and students eager to join the cast or crew can find audition details and participation guidelines on the BIS Performing Arts website. The production will be entirely student-run, giving kids the chance not only to audition for acting roles, but also to take on behind-the-scenes jobs such as lighting, costume design, prop master, publicity, and more.

In the spring, BIS will bring Mary Poppins JR. to life. Based on the beloved Disney classic and Broadway hit, this musical tells the story of the Banks family and the magical nanny who changes their lives. With unforgettable songs, dazzling dance numbers, and plenty of stage magic, Mary Poppins JR. offers a practically perfect showcase for student performers and crew. This beloved classic also offers BIS students the chance to shine in large ensemble numbers, bringing performers from all grades and across the school community together on stage.

These opportunities wouldn’t be possible without BCE’s annual grant to the Burlingame School District, which helps fund the middle school theater program along with music, art, physical education, and more. If you’d like to support the creativity and confidence-building that theater inspires in our students, please consider making a gift to BCE today.

How You Can Help the BIS Performing Arts Program

Funding the BIS fall play and spring musical are one of many ways that donations to BCE help make our schools dynamic communities that engage students beyond the basic curriculum. BCE relies on generous support from parents, businesses and community members to meet its grant goals. Donations to BCE provide our schools with funding for enhancing the educational experience for every child in Burlingame. If you haven’t given yet this year, our suggested donation amount is $2,000 per student, but every dollar makes a difference. Consider joining our Scholars Circle by making a donation of $4,000 or more.

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