Preschoolers perform in circus
Razzling, dazzling tightrope walkers! Daring lions and tigers! Dancing dogs! Send in the clowns! Zany zebras! Amazing strongmen! A scene-stealing future "American Idol" vocalist!
And not a single circus performer is over the age of 5!
Ridge Spring-Monetta Elementary School 4-K students presented the annual RS-M Preschool Circus, greeted with cheers and warm applause from family and friends Friday.
The production was produced and directed by teachers Kipp Palmer and Pam Miller and teaching assistants Patricia Lott and Ethel Smith.
"This is the ninth year," said Palmer. "It was very little to start with, but now it's grown to a massive event. The eighth-graders were begging us to let them see it. This really makes memories for the kids. A lot of them have never been to the circus and this brings it to life for them."
Jasmine Rico, the charming scene-stealer, portrayed a clown with Allie Hodson, Zachariah Riso and Morgan Johnson. In the finale, Jasmine let loose with a rousing solo performance, backed up by her classmates.
Alex Perez, who is confined to a wheelchair, served as a strongman with Dantrell Weaver, Joseph Williams and J'Quan Weston. He also had his very own assistant, Palmer's daughter McKenna, a fifth-grader.
"It's fun to help him. He likes me and thinks I'm his girlfriend," said McKenna with a grin, clearly not minding. She still vividly remembers being in the circus herself six years ago, portraying a tightrope walker.
In most cases, the kids pick their own parts for the circus. For key roles like the ringmasters, however, Palmer and Miller scout out the most outgoing - and vocal - kids. They made wise choices Friday with effervescent performers Harley Rodgers and Amanee Gilliam.
Attending the event was Paula Simmons, coordinator of the 4-year-old kindergarten program for the past three years. She is returning to the classroom in the fall. Simmons got a big surprise when she saw the circus brochure.
It read in part, "And a special thanks to Paula Simmons. She has been a greater support for child development. With much love, we dedicate this circus to you!"
Simmons was surprised and touched by the gesture. She thoroughly enjoyed the program and is looking forward to the next school year.
"I'm very excited about being with the children again," Simmons said.
Contact Rob Novit at rnovit@aikenstandard.com.