On May 1, Countryside Montessori School students performed this year's opera, "Pearl," for classmates, staff and family members in the school's gymnasium. An annual tradition for the past 24 years, students push books and homework aside and work solely on their operatic performances, and for some, debuts.
Sanford and Judy Jones of Savannah, Ga., once again joined the students this year as the composer/accompanist and choreographer. The Joneses bring their experiences and accomplishments to the table, which include: Founding director of the American Montessori Teachers Association and director of 13 children's operas for Sanford Jones; an accomplished ballerina and director/owner of the Montclair Academy of Dance for Judy 
Jones.
The Joneses also brought Stacy Stephens with them to play the role of Sirenia. Stephens has performed as a soloist with the Savannah Symphony.
"Pearl," an underwater story, takes place in the colonial south. Sirenia, the river goddess and her daughter, Pearl, are returning to their "family" of underwater creatures (played by Countryside students) ranging from crayfish to river reeds to a worm.
Through song, the story of Pearl's kidnapping by the Oyster King and the underwater creatures step up to help, only to be defeated by the Oyster King and his evil sea currents. In the end, a water nymph rescues Pearl, leaving the story to end happily.
Around 60 students ranging in ages from 6 to 12-years-old performed a song and dance number in the opera. Cast members received compact discs of the opera's musical numbers a few months ago, and were able to listen and memorize the music/story before rehearsals, which began only four days before the performance.
The week of April 27-May 1 was solely dedicated to singing, dancing and rehearsing the show, which debuted on the evening of May 1. Costumes and set design were all results of the efforts of Countryside parents and faculty.
"The opera is not only an enjoyable part of the year, but it builds the childrens' confidence," Sanford Jones said. "It also teaches them to have an appreciation for the opera at a young age. For kids, singing is as natural as speaking, so it wasn't difficult to produce the show."
Countryside education director Wendy Calise said the opera is not only beneficial for the students, but for the faculty, staff and parents as well.
"It definitely builds community here, everyone pitches in," Calise said. "The older children are always eager to help the younger ones, which is something that's common here. They can show them the ropes since they've performed in the operas before."
By: Jessica Cantarelli/Triblocal.com staff reporter 05/01/09 04:42 PM
