Young Norcross Actors Star in 'The Jungle Book'

Three talented young actors from Norcross are featured Lionheart Theatre Co.’s all-youth production of Disney’s "The Jungle Book," July 20 through July 22 in Norcross.

Marie Walker’s years of ballet experience is featured in the show’s opening number where she also does a vocal solo. As a freshman at Providence Christian Academy in Lilburn, Walker also plays a Jersey Boys-inspired vulture.

“It's a lot of fun!” said Walker. “I love being able to sing, dance and act all in one show! This is my first show at Lionheart, and it’s been a great experience.”

Lilly Ott plays Shanti, the girl from the man-village, and also sings and dances as a monkey. Ott is a third grader at Simpson Elementary in Peachtree Corners.

Ariana Clearfield, a fifth grader at Duluth's Notre Dame Academy, plays several roles as a bee, Kaa-the-Snake and a monkey.

In addition, teen students from Norcross’ own make up the entire production crew. Sophomore Sam Casey is the director, junior Sam Weyen is the stage manager, and Maggie Clark, also a junior, handles lights. Sophomore Katy Davis is on sound, seventh-grader Dorey Casey is the production assistant and fourth-grader Laura Buice plays the part of Kaa.

“It’s been awesome doing a community theater show with my drama friends from school,” said Casey.

The show will benefit efforts to in need. Lionheart will collect back-to-school items such as backpacks, ruled paper and pens from patrons at the theatre during the show, and the theatre company also will donate a portion of the proceeds for school supplies.

The song and dance version of the Rudyard Kipling classic opens July 20 with shows at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., July 21 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., and July 22 at 2 p.m. All seats are $10. Reservations are highly recommended. Log on to www.lionhearttheater.org call 678-938-8518.  Lionheart is located in the College Street Playhouse at 10 College Street in Historic Norcross at the College Street Playhouse.

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