Dingeman’s annual musical brings students to the spotlight
Each spring, the Dingeman Elementary School campus takes on a special kind of energy as students step into the spotlight for the school’s annual musical – an event that has become the cornerstone of Dingeman’s performing arts program. This year’s production takes place on Wednesday, April 15, featuring select fourth and fifth grade classes in a performance that celebrates creativity, collaboration and growth.
The 2025 musical, “Haphazardly Ever After,” is a fractured fairy tale farce written by Jeff Fluharty, offering a playful and humorous twist on familiar stories. Directed by Garner Saguil, with choreography by Antonette Harris, the production blends comedy, music and imagination into a show designed to entertain audiences while giving students a meaningful artistic experience.
Approximately 65 students are involved in the production, both on stage and behind the scenes. While the final performance is what audiences see, the journey to opening night is where much of the learning takes place. Students explore acting and singing while also gaining experience in teamwork, set design, stage movement and technical production. Every role – whether center stage or behind the curtain – plays a part in bringing the show to life.
That growth is evident each year. Students learn how to project their voices, manage nerves, listen to cues and work as an ensemble. Just as importantly, they learn responsibility – showing up prepared, helping their peers and committing to something larger than themselves.
Over time, the Dingeman musical has become more than a performance. It is an annual tradition that brings the school community together. Additionally, the skills students develop extend well beyond the stage, shaping confidence, empathy and leadership.
With its energetic cast, imaginative storytelling and enthusiastic student involvement, “Haphazardly Ever After” promises to be another memorable chapter in Dingeman’s performing arts tradition.