Performing Arts Academy students are preparing for the premiere of Elevate: A Music Revue in Flight, a musical revue featuring students of all ages. The show is a mashup of iconic songs, with the second act spotlighting gospel music, reflecting the community’s rich church traditions.
Students are eager to take the stage. Third-grader Madison Bernard expressed her excitement, saying it has been “really fun” to be part of the cast. Senior Ava Grant shared a similar sentiment, noting that she particularly enjoys the gospel portion of the performance.
For eighth-grader Jeremiah Porter, Elevate is another opportunity to deepen his passion for music. Porter, who plays percussion, piano, bass guitar, and drums, brings his instrumental talents to the show. Meanwhile, tenth-grader Jacey Pamintuan said her favorite song to perform is “Don’t Stop Believin’,” the classic hit by Journey.
Caesar Draper, a tenth grader, encourages audience participation during the revue. “What makes it so special is that most of our songs are popular across different genres, so everyone will recognize at least one,” Draper explained. He emphasized that each song carries a deeper meaning.
Senior Jyshir Plunkett, a seasoned performer with nine musicals under his belt, said Elevate is his favorite production to date. “Being able to audition for any song you want is great,” said Plunkett, who has several solos in the revue, including Michael Jackson’s “Remember the Time.”
The production serves as more than just a showcase of student talent. Proceeds from ticket sales will fund future productions and provide scholarships to seniors involved in the show, helping them with college or trade school expenses. “That money goes straight to them,” said Shauna Hines, the district’s coordinator of STEAM, CTE, and fine arts.
The title, Elevate, came from a brainstorming session between Hines and Devin Pendleton, Artistic Director of the Patriot Players at Patrick & Henry Community College. “We got off the phone, and he texted me the word ‘Elevate,’” Hines recalled, adding that she designed the artwork for the show the same night.
With deep ties to the local church community, Hines felt it was important to honor that connection by incorporating a gospel segment into the revue. “Our community has a strong church presence, so we wanted to include a little gospel music,” she said.
The show has drawn significant interest from students, with 60 children auditioning for roles. Hines emphasized the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment for the students. “One thing we pride ourselves on is providing our kids a safe place to be themselves,” she said, sharing a daily chant recited by the cast: “In this space, in this place, we are safe. So always find your light.”
Hines also encourages students to try out for school productions, as they often discover hidden talents. “They haven’t been given the opportunity to see what they can do,” she said.
The premium first-class experience for the show, priced at $15, has almost sold out. The tickets offer early entry, front-row seating, and snacks and drinks. Hines noted the high cost of producing a show, and added that ticket sales help cover expenses and reduce the financial burden on students who want to participate. “People don’t realize just how much money it takes to fund a show,” she said. For example, just the back-row lighting and movers were estimated to cost around $8,000.
“At Martinsville, we believe in giving all our students everything they need,” Hines explained. The school tries to minimize costs for students by providing as many costumes as possible. “People have no idea what this takes.”
Elevate: A Music Revue in Flight will be performed on Friday, October 25, at 7 p.m., and Saturday, October 26, at 2 p.m., in the Martinsville High School Auditorium. Tickets are available online for $8 or at the door for $12. Children aged 5 and under are admitted for free.
