GCHS Theatre Students Perform "Chrysanthemum" for Deasy and Gribbin

On April 24, the Glen Cove High School Playwriting and Advanced Musical Theatre class performed a musical adaptation of Kevin Henkes’ Chrysanthemum for elementary students from Deasy and Gribbin.

The project was part of a curriculum focused on adapting children’s books into performances. Many of the high school actors are alumni of the schools they performed for, creating a meaningful connection between the grade levels.

On April 17, high schoolers visited the elementary schools to lead workshops. Students learned "Character Transformations," the show’s main song, and choreography for the "Fairy Princess Ballet."

Under the direction of Theatre Teacher Jared Ross, the cast held two shows at the high school—a morning session for Deasy and an afternoon session for Gribbin. Following the performances, the K-2 students met the cast and took photos with the performers in costume. Elementary teachers paired the trip with lessons on kindness and proper audience etiquette.

The following students led the workshops and production:

• Acting & Directing: Derek, Lianna, Mia, Maddie, and Carolyne.
• Choreography: Aiden, David, Rose, Abby, Kate, and Grace.

This collaboration provided a day of community building and creative inspiration for the entire Glen Cove School District.