The Real Magic of Middle School Musicals
- May 2
- 5 min read
Updated: May 6
Mary Poppins JR. at BIS highlights how performing arts help students grow, connect, and shine.
BIS audiences were recently taken on a magical journey into the enchanting world of Mary Poppins JR., the Broadway Junior musical adaptation of the acclaimed 1964 Disney film. Through captivating songs and choreography, impressive costumes and props, timely lighting and sound effects, BIS Performing Arts stunned crowds once again. From the first auditions to the final bow, this year’s Mary Poppins JR. musical at Burlingame Intermediate School was more than a performance. It was a chance for students to grow, connect, and discover new confidence, both on stage and behind the scenes.
Middle school is a time when students are figuring out who they are and where they belong. For many, stepping into a production like Mary Poppins JR. offers a unique opportunity to try something new, take risks, and be part of a team working toward a shared goal. Whether performing in a lead role, singing in the ensemble, managing lights and sound, or helping backstage, every student plays an important part in bringing the show to life.
Take it from BIS sixth grader Nora Lawler who played Jane Banks in the musical. After spending years watching her sister, BIS alum Sage Lawler, perform, Nora was inspired to follow in her sister’s footsteps and take the stage in her debut role. “I always liked to act and sing, but I found out that I was capable of more than I thought! I learned that I have a passion for performing!” said Nora. “It was pretty nerve wracking being in front of an audience for the first time. Once I made it through my opening song The Perfect Nanny, my nervousness faded away, and it was fun to be on stage!”
Building Confidence, Creativity, and Community
Productions like Mary Poppins JR. help students develop skills that extend far beyond the stage. Memorizing lines, performing in front of an audience, and collaborating with peers all build confidence and resilience. Students learn how to support one another, adapt when things don’t go as planned, and take pride in what they’ve accomplished together.
“It's the best feeling in the world when you're able to cheer your friends on from backstage, and know that they are silently rooting for you, as well,” shared eighth grader Aubrey Sarnoff who took the BIS stage for the fourth time, this time as Bert. “There is more to a performance than the show the audience sees. There's rehearsals, and effort, and fun, and discovery, and the friends you make along the way are some of the best you will ever have. When signing up for a show, you aren't just joining a production, you're joining a community of awesome people who will be there for you, even behind the curtain. They are the people who make me laugh, the people who cheer for me when I am at my best and who hold me when I'm at my worst.”
At the helm of this “community of awesome people” is the team of directors who led the cast and crew through months of hard work: Director Jennifer Ibos, Music Director John Collaros, and Assistant Director Genelle Ibos.
"This year’s production of Mary Poppins JR. gave students the chance to step into a world of imagination, energy, and heart. From lively ensemble numbers to memorable lead performances, the show challenged students to stretch their abilities and fully embody their roles. Whether mastering choreography, perfecting accents, or bringing iconic characters to life, students rose to the occasion with enthusiasm and dedication." - Director Jennifer Ibos
And rise they did. “The classic film Mary Poppins is a Ms. Ibos favorite, and she held us to a very high standard,” shared Ryan Glass who played Michael Banks. Mary Poppins JR. is the eighth grader’s sixth performance and third musical at BIS. “Performing in a musical is very exciting and fun, especially when you start the first show with an audience. It is interesting to hear how different audiences react to funny lines or songs,” he added. Through a series of hits that have stood the test of time, like “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious,” “Spoonful of Sugar,” “Feed the Birds,” and “Let’s Go Fly a Kite,” the show elicited an array of emotions and reactions from youngsters, peers, and elders alike filling BIS Auditorium.
Beyond the spotlight, the production also highlighted the importance of collaboration and trust. With so many moving parts like scene changes and musical cues, students relied on one another to keep the show running smoothly. The result was a true team effort, where every contribution mattered.
“Being part of a production feels awesome. It feels like you are part of something bigger. Having seen previous BIS productions, it’s cool to get a behind the scenes look at how everything is put together,” said Prop Master Maddie Tsai, a seventh grader excited to be part of a BIS production for the second time. “And now you are in the show that the audience is watching!”
In that audience, beaming with pride, are the parents of cast and crew, who made their own personal commitment to Mary Poppins JR., many months before the April performance days. The parents also see the impact firsthand. For many families, the transformation over the course of rehearsals is just as meaningful as the final performance. “It is amazing to me,” said Adriana Bruges, mother of cast member and eighth grader Matteo Bracho. “Since getting involved with theater in the sixth grade, I have seen growth in Matteo. Not only does he have a relationship with theater now, but he has also learned about compassion, respect, and friendship. He has built a sense of commitment. These are important during the teen years,” she noted. “While rehearsing for each production, kids in the cast and crew need to work with each other and solve problems together. There is no place for competition.”
Matteo, who completed his fifth BIS performance and third musical with the role of Chimney Sweep Soloist 2, added, “The community is so inclusive. From talking to the cast members about the script or planning how to move the stage sets with the crew, everybody is helping each other with anything they need.” Matteo also pointed out that the BIS Performing Arts program has helped him with presenting to large crowds, as well as giving suggestions and receiving feedback from adults and peers. When asked if he plans to participate in performing arts in high school, Matteo answered, “Yes! This program has shown me my love of theater, and I hope to continue.”
Making It All Possible
Performing arts programs like the BIS musical don’t happen by accident. They are made possible by the generosity of BCE donors, whose support funds the annual grant that brings music, performing arts, and so many enriching opportunities to our schools. Because of this community, students have the chance to discover new passions, build confidence, and experience the joy of being part of something bigger than themselves. If you haven’t yet made a gift this year, we invite you to join in supporting these meaningful programs. Every contribution helps ensure that experiences like Mary Poppins JR. continue to inspire and uplift Burlingame students for years to come. 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.
