Meet Our Cast

(in alphabetical order)

  • Levi Blankenbeker

    Levi Blankenbeker is excited to be in this cast with his Dad and his sister. Former credits at PTCC are Annie and Hollywood Revue (2024). His credits at Jackson County Community Theatre include Holy Mother of Bingo (2025), Frozen jr (2024), Lord of the Flies (2024), and Finding Nemo jr (2023). He would like to thank his Dad, sister, and his friend Matthew for supporting him! And special shout-out to his Mema and Mom for all their hard work on his costumes!

  • Ruby Blankenbeker

    Ruby Blankenbeker is delighted to be on the Park Theater Stage with her brother and dad. She has been in plays at PTCC including Annie (2024) as July and Annie’s Understudy. She also performs at the Jackson County Community Theatre where she has done many plays. She most recently won Grand Champion of Jackson County (2025) for 4-H Performing Arts! She would like to thank her Dad, brother Levi, Mom, and her friends for their never ending support.

  • Stephen Blankenbeker

    Stephen Blankenbeker is happy to be back at the Park Theatre in Heroes and Villiains! Previously he appeared in Annie(2024) and Hollywood Revue(2024). He is thrilled to be getting the opportunity to perform some of his favorite songs from Broadway with his daughter Ruby and son Levi! He would like to say a special thanks to his wife Lauren Blankenbeker and Mother-in-law Pamela Clawson for creating such amazing costumes for him!

  • Naomi Bright

    Naomi Bright is excited to be in her 4th show at the Park Theater. She has always loved musical theater and really enjoys dancing, singing, and acting! She wants to thank the production team and her friends and family for their support.

  • Tally Bright

    Atalyah Bright is excited to be in her 4th show at the Park Theater! She has a passion for musical theater and the performing arts. Atalyah loves to sing, dance, and act. She wants to thank the production team and her friends and family for their support!

  • Hope Burke

    Hope Burke is excited to make her Park Theatre debut! In high school, she performed in Grease and, as a junior, played the lead in Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella. She also participated in show choir and various plays. Offstage, she likes to add a touch of drama with her unique earring collection. She loves to create sweet treats, as the owner of Hidden Brambles Chocolate Café. She would like to thank her oldest daughter, Kaleya, for pushing her to pursue this opportunity and always being her biggest cheerleader.

  • Kristina Charlton

    COSTUMES

    Kristina Charlton portrayed Miss Hannigan in the 2024 PTCC production of “Annie”. Past credits include Glinda in “The Wizard of Oz”, Emily Hobbs in “Elf the Musical” and Miss Shields in “A Christmas Story.”  She has been featured in the Broadway and Hollywood Revues at the PTCC and Sylvia in “Sylvia” at th JCCT where she sits on the Board of Directors, is the chair of the youth program and the annual summer youth camp. She has served as a director of “Frozen, Jr.” and “Finding Nemo, Jr.”

  • Lilly Charlton

    Lilly Charlton has a true passion for all things musical theatre and is excitedto be back on The Park Theatre stage! She starred as Annie in this past December’s production of “Annie!” Lilly is a 7th grader at Seymour Middle School, and has taken piano, voice, and dance lessons for many years. Last summer, Lilly starred as Olaf in “Frozen, Jr.” Some of Lilly’s past roles at the Park Theatre include: Michelle in “Elf the Musical”, Ensemble in “The Wizard of Oz”, and Ensemble in “A Christmas Story.”

  • Shawn Charlton

    STAGING/LIGHTING/TECH

    Shawn Charlton is thrilled to be back after portraying Rooster in “Annie” with Park Theatre Productions. Other previous roles include: narrator/adult Ralph in “A Christmas Story”, Buddy the Elf in “Elf the Musical”, Scarecrow “The Wizard of Oz”, and spots in “Broadway” and “Hollywood” revues. Director and AD for “Frozen, Jr.”, “Lord of the Flies”, “Finding Nemo, Jr.” at JCCt.  Shawn works as an educator for youth in secure detention and operates On the One Entertainment. He is blessed to continue doing shows with his family and loves how theatre can bring so many people together!

  • Abby Decker

    Abigail Decker is excited to be back at the Park Theatre for this Revue. Past credits include Annie, Queen Aggravain in Once Upon a Mattress, and Hollywood and Broadway Revues, and Touch of Class. She would like to thank everyone who came to watch this great show and the production team at the Park for continuing to provide great opportunities to perform in this community.

  • Sarah Dillon

    Sarah Dillon is delighted to be performing again on the Park Theatre stage. She has performed in the Broadway and Hollywood Revues and was Shelby in JCP’s production of Steel Magnolias. Most recently, she was Grace in the PTP production of Annie. Sarah is a teacher at JCHS and a member of Christ’s Way Christian Church praise team. She would like to thank Park Theatre Productions and her family and friends for their continued support.

  • Zoey Dillon

    Zoey Dillon is so excited to be a part of another Park Theatre Productions show. She has performed in the Broadway and Hollywood Revues. Most recently, she was Kate in the PTP production of Annie. Zoey is a 7th grade student at St. Mary’s. She is a member of the JCMS cross country and softball teams and plays travel softball for Indiana Xtreme. She would like to thank Park Theatre Productions, her coaches, her parents, and friends for all their support.

  • Andrew Eaken

    Andrew Eaken is excited to be in his first PTP production! Andrew is a multi-instrumentalist and has performed The Bluebird in Bloomington, IN and at the Park Theatre. His past experience includes pep band and marching band, but he most enjoys songwriting and finding new ways to share his love for music. A fun fact: Andrew won an award in sixth grade singing Edelweiss in a contest. He is thrilled to perform the song again as a duet so many years later!

  • Casey Ernstes

    Casey Ernstes is thrilled to be part of her second production, following her debut in 10,000 Hallelujahs. A lifelong lover of singing, Casey was active in choir throughout school and is excited (and a little nervous) to take on her first solo performance in this show. Outside of the theater, she is an elementary school teacher who also coaches five different sports. Casey has a passion for working with children and bringing energy and creativity into everything she does.

  • Matthew Floyd

    Matthew Floyd isexcited to be back to perform in Heroes and Villains! He has performed in all of the Park Theatre Productions performances including Annie, Elf, Wizard of Oz, and both Musical Revues, along with Finding Nemo and Frozen Jr. at JCCT. When he’s not acting, Matthew enjoys traveling, practicing Mixed Martial Arts, and trying new foods. Matthew would like to thank his theatre bud Levi, along with his parents, grandparents, and sister for all their support!

  • Dave George

    LIGHTING

    Dave George is excited to be a performing in “Heroes & Villains.” He has appeared in multiple productions in the past. Recently he portrayed “FDR” in Annie, “The Blues Brothers” in the Hollywood Revue, “King George” in the Broadway Revue and “The Old Man” in A Christmas Story. He has also served as the Director for Annie, Wizard of Oz, and Elf the Musical. He is so thankful for the support from his family. Dave is so appreciative to have the Park Theatre in this community!

  • Jack George

    Jack George is very excited to be in “Heroes & Villians: Broadway Revue”. Jack loves being on stage and being involved in theatre. He has been in several productions, most recently the role of the Tin Man in Wizard of Oz and Elwood Blues in Hollywood: A Musical Revue. Jack is currently a Freshman at Indiana University Bloomington. He would like to thank the Park Theatre for giving him many opportunities to be on stage.

  • Leah Hall

    Leah Hall is happy to take the stage at the Park Theater. With a lifelong love for musical theater, Leah is excited to share the stage with her daughters and her mother. When she's not performing herself, Leah loves watching her daughters shine on stage, and is grateful for the opportunity to create quality memories with them at the theater.

  • Heather Howard

    CHOREOGRAPHER

    Heather is thrilled to be performing again with her friends at the Park. She has previously been seen as Lily St. Regis in Annie, and Jovie in Elf the Musical. Heather has also choreographed the 2024 and 2025 Spring musicals at Greensburg High School and frequently helps with choreography in many of the productions at the Park Theatre. She is so thankful for the support of her family, and for the friendships the theatre has brought into her life.

  • Leonel Jimenez

    Leonel Jimenez is pumped to perform on the PTCC stage. He was involved in The Little Mermaid, Footloose, Frozen Jr. and The Fantasticks as Prince Eric, Ren McCormack, Prince Hans and Matt(The Boy) at Seymour HS and JCCT. Leonel can also be found binge watching his favorite animated superhero shows or in the gym. Leonel would like to thank his theatre friends and family, and he can't wait for you to watch all these talented performers rock the stage.

  • KayAnn Johnson

    KayAnn Johnson is a passionate performer with a love for singing, acting, and all things Broadway. KayAnn has had the opportunity to showcase her talent as part of the school choir and in Finding Nemo Jr. and Frozen Jr. at JCYAT. When not performing, KayAnn loves pizza, the arts, hasand a strong dedication to their craft. KayAnn thanks Pam Hartley, Stephanie Brock, the production team here at Park Theater and her family for supporting her in the pursuit and development of her passion.

  • Paul Keller

    Paul Keller is thrilled to be back on the stage at The Park Theatre—after all, what’s a villain without his stage to conquer? Paul has performed as Drake the Butler in Annie, the Wizard in The Wizard of Oz. When he's not scheming on stage, Paul also performs in church and with the band Bad Medicine in Seymour. He is the current board president of Jackson County Community Theatre. Always on Team Villain, Paul thrives on bringing characters to life who are as mean, green, and bad as they come!

  • Lennon Leonard

    Lennon Leonard is excited to be a part of the Park Theatre Production’s Heroes and Villains. She is in 3rd grade at St. Mary’s School. She has previously performed in Annie, Rapunzel, and portrayed Young Fiona in Shrek as well as Veruca Salt in Wonka. Outside of singing and theatre she loves to play basketball and volleyball. She is thankful to her family, the cast and crew of the show, as well as the Park Theatre for the opportunity to do musical theatre in our community.

  • Max Maschino

    Max Maschino is excited to be joining the Park Theater for another production. Max has previously been a part of the Hollywood and Broadway revues as well as JCHS musicals. He is a Freshmen at Purdue University studying Agronomy. Along with performing, Max enjoys photography, caring for his animals, and hanging out with friends. He would like to thank the Park Theater, his fellow cast mates, and a special thank you to Andrew and Rachel for allowing him the opportunity to perform in this show.

  • Ella Mae Lewis

    Ellamae Lews is delighted to be back at PTCC. She has been in many productions including, "Elf the Musical", "Annie", and the Broadway and Hollywood Revues. Ellamae is a 3rd grader at Jackson Elementary. She also enjoys participating in pageants, playing the piano and drums, gymnastics, and tap dancing. Thank you to everyone at PTCC, my parents, family, and friends for supporting me.

  • Emma Mellencamp

    Emma is so excited to be in the Heroes and Villains broadway revue! She is a freshman at Trinity Lutheran High School. Past credits included Anastasia, Matilda in Matilda Jr at ILS, Nancy in Holy Mother of Bingo, Gurgle in Finding Nemo Jr, and Anna in Frozen Jr. She also enjoys singing, cheerleading, playing the sax, cross country, and track. She would like to thank her family for all their love and support and especially her friends in the theater.

  • Lilly Nott

    Lilly is a 4th grader at Parkside Elementary and is excited to be a part of this show! The Park Theatre holds a very special place in Lilly’s heart, as Hulda Reichenbach was her great grandmother. Lilly has been in several productions including Annie, The Wizard of Oz, Elf, and other revues.

  • Ally Parker

    Ally Parker is very excited to perform in her first revue at the Park Theatre! In December, Ally made her PTCC debut in Annie. Her previous experience includes North Drama, Mill Race Theatre Company (MRTC), Passion For Acting Theatre Company, Golden Ticket Productions and Park Theatre Productions & The Oakridge Studio. Her favorite are Rachel Brown in Inherit the Wind and Gloria Thorpe in Damn Yankees. When not performing, Ally enjoys serving in Worship and Youth ministries at her church and playing pickleball. Ally would like to thank her family and friends for their love and support and Park Theatre Productions & The Oakridge Studio for giving her the opportunity to portray one of her dream roles in Heroes & Villains.

  • Andrew Rodriguez

    DIRECTOR

    Andrew Rodriguez is a singer, multi-instrumentalist, and the co-owner of The Oakridge Studio with his wife, Rachel. His PTCC credits include “A Christmas Story” (sound design/music), “Assisted Living: The Musical” (music/tech), “ELF: The Musical” (music/tech/cast “Manager”), “Broadway: A Musical Revue” (music/video/tech), “Annie: The Musical” (Daddy Warbucks/music/tech). Heroes vs. Villains is his directorial debut at the Park Theatre.

  • Rachel Rodriguez

    ASSISTANT DIRECTOR

    Rachel is delighted to once again take the stage at the Park Theatre, and this show has been a blast, thanks to a stellar cast, an expert production team, her supportive kiddos who keep her laughing, and her husband, Andrew, who is the best music partner a girl could ask for. Many thanks to her piano and voice students who she gets to make music with every week and for the parents and grandparents who make music a priority. Words can never express her thanks to her own parents for seeing and cultivating the thing that gives her life clarity, meaning, and fulfillment. As the song says, “What the world needs now is love, sweet love,” and music might just be the best way to make that happen.

  • Jason Sanders

    Jason Sanders is excited to make his theatrical debut with this Park Theatre production. He is the president of Erler Industries and a volunteer firefighter. In his free time, Jason enjoys traveling, spending time with his family, and attending Broadway musicals and concerts. He would like to thank his daughter, Lila, for encouraging him to take this leap and his family for their constant support.

  • Lila Sanders

    Lila Sanders is thrilled to be back on stage at the Park Theatre as part of the Heroes and Villains show. She has performed in Annie, Wonka, the Hollywood and Broadway Musical Revues, and Wizard of Oz. Lila is a 6th grader at St. Mary’s School. When not acting, she enjoys playing volleyball, tennis, traveling, and spending time with family and friends. Lila would like to thank Park Theatre Productions for the opportunity to perform and her family and friends for always supporting her.

  • Bennett Stevens

    Bennett Stevens is a fourth grader at Brush Creek Elementary School. Bennett loves the friends she’s made through her involvement at The Park Theatre during Elf, Annie, and this Revue. Outside of theater, Bennett loves to play soccer, basketball, and softball. She also loves to do cartwheels. All the time.

  • Stella Stevens

    Stella Stevens is a sixth grader at Brush Creek Elementary School and loves her involvement at the Park Theatre. She’s so grateful for her experiences on stage with The Christmas Story, Elf, Wizard of Oz, and Annie. When she’s not at rehearsal, she’s busy running track, cross country, dancing, or playing basketball. Stella also loves to read; specifically the Hunger Games Book Series.

  • Franny Woodall

    Franny is a local music teacher and performing singer/songwriter. She is delighted to be a part of her second Spring Review at the Park Theater. She played Mrs. Pugh in Annie at the Park Theater. Franny has also appeared in Oliver, where she won the coveted Jenny Award for her portrayal of Nancy, and Babes in Arms (Billie Smith). She is thankful to be a part of such a talented cast and crew.

ACT I

Alexander Hamilton — Hamilton

The song "Alexander Hamilton" from the musical *Hamilton* introduces the life and background of the title character, Alexander Hamilton. It sets the stage by recounting his early struggles as an orphaned immigrant from the Caribbean, his rise to prominence through his intelligence, and his determination to make a name for himself in America. The song highlights his ambition, the challenges he faced, and his eventual impact on the American Revolution and the founding of the United States. Through a fast-paced, energetic rap and spoken word style, the song builds Hamilton’s legacy and prepares the audience for the central role he will play in the unfolding story.

You’ll Be Back — Hamilton

In the song "You'll Be Back" from *Hamilton*, King George III humorously and menacingly addresses the American colonies, expressing his belief that their rebellion against Britain will ultimately fail. He sings about how the colonies will eventually return to British control, promising that he will "be back" to reclaim them when they realize they cannot survive without the monarchy. The song is playful in tone, with King George using a catchy, upbeat melody to convey his arrogance and confidence, while subtly hinting at the darker consequences of defying British rule. It serves as both a comedic and sinister commentary on the British perspective during the American Revolution.

The Last Midnight—Into the Woods

In the song *"The Last Midnight"* from *Into the Woods*, the Witch delivers a powerful and vengeful aria after all the characters' wishes have gone awry, causing chaos and destruction in the woods. She expresses her frustration with the other characters, blaming them for their selfishness and poor decisions. The Witch revels in the destruction, singing about how everything has fallen apart because of their actions, and declares that she will now take matters into her own hands. The song is dark, energetic, and filled with bitterness, as the Witch seems to take pleasure in the impending downfall of everyone involved, signaling the end of the story’s more hopeful moments. It marks a pivotal turning point in the musical, where the characters must face the consequences of their desires and choices.

Your Fault—Into the Woods

In the song *"Your Fault"* from *Into the Woods*, the characters involved in the various fairy tale plots come together to argue and blame one another for the series of misfortunes that have befallen them. The song takes place after the characters' actions lead to a tragic and chaotic turn of events, including the death of a character. Each person—Cinderella, Jack, Little Red Riding Hood, the Baker, and the Witch—points fingers at someone else, denying responsibility and instead blaming one another for their problems. The song is fast-paced and humorous, but it also highlights the themes of accountability, the consequences of one's actions, and how everyone’s choices are interconnected in the unfolding narrative.

For Good—Wicked

In the song *"For Good"* from *Wicked*, Elphaba and Glinda share an emotional farewell as their friendship comes to a bittersweet end. As the two reflect on their time together, they express how profoundly they’ve changed each other’s lives for the better. Elphaba acknowledges that Glinda has helped her grow and accept herself, while Glinda recognizes that Elphaba's strength and uniqueness have influenced her in ways she never expected. The song is a heartfelt expression of gratitude, love, and the lasting impact they’ve had on each other, even though their paths are now separating. It highlights themes of friendship, personal growth, and the idea that people can make a difference in each other’s lives "for good.”

Pilate’s Dream—Jesus Christ Superstar

The song *"Pilate's Dream"* from *Jesus Christ Superstar* is sung by Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor who will later be involved in the trial and crucifixion of Jesus. In this haunting and introspective number, Pilate recounts a vivid dream he had in which he is confronted by a powerful and unsettling vision of Jesus. The dream deeply troubles Pilate, as he is unsure about what to make of Jesus' innocence and the impending fate that awaits him. The song reflects Pilate’s internal conflict, his growing sense of unease, and his struggle to understand his role in the events that are unfolding. It captures Pilate's vulnerability and fear as he faces a decision that he knows will have significant consequences.

Ya Got Trouble—The Music Man

In the song *"Ya Got Trouble"* from *The Music Man*, the conman Harold Hill tries to convince the citizens of River City that their town is on the brink of moral ruin due to the presence of a pool hall. With a catchy, fast-paced tune, Harold exaggerates the supposed dangers of the pool hall, claiming that it will corrupt the youth and lead to chaos in the community. His speech is a manipulative attempt to stir up fear and convince the townspeople to fund his plan to create a boys' marching band, which will supposedly save their town. The song showcases Harold's charm and persuasive skills, as he uses humor and fear-mongering to manipulate the crowd.

Mean Green Mother From Outer Space—Little Shop of Horrors

In the song *"Mean Green Mother from Outer Space"* from *Little Shop of Horrors*, the plant Audrey II reveals its true, menacing nature. After being nurtured by Seymour, the plant grows to an enormous size and begins to express its desire for domination. The song is a show-stopping, rock-and-roll number in which Audrey II declares its intentions to take over the world, using its charm and power to manipulate Seymour into helping it fulfill its sinister goals. The plant taunts the characters and demonstrates its evil, aggressive side, marking a turning point in the musical where it becomes clear that Audrey II is no longer just a quirky, oversized plant, but a dangerous, otherworldly force.

Hero Is My Middle Name—SpongeBob Squarepants The Musical

In the song *"Hero Is My Middle Name"* from *SpongeBob SquarePants: The Musical*, SpongeBob exudes confidence and enthusiasm as he embraces his role as an unlikely hero. The song is upbeat and playful, with SpongeBob proudly singing about his abilities to save the day and make a difference, even though others might not see him as the traditional hero. It captures his optimistic spirit and determination to rise to the challenge, despite any doubts or obstacles. SpongeBob’s infectious energy and belief in himself shine through as he takes on a heroic persona in the face of adversity.

Bring Him Home—Les Miserables

In the song *"Bring Him Home"* from *Les Misérables*, Jean Valjean, a former convict who has become a father figure to Marius, sings a heartfelt prayer. Marius, the young revolutionary, is gravely injured in the barricades, and Valjean is deeply concerned for his safety. Valjean prays to God, asking for Marius' life to be spared, as he believes that Marius brings happiness to his adopted daughter, Cosette. The song expresses Valjean's deep love and selflessness, as he is willing to sacrifice his own life for the well-being of others. It is a powerful moment of devotion, hope, and the desire for peace.

Revolting Children—Matilda

In the song *"Revolting Children"* from *Matilda the Musical*, the children of the story, led by Matilda, defiantly stand up to the oppressive authority of Miss Trunchbull, the tyrannical headmistress. The children, once fearful and subdued, now embrace their power and individuality, declaring that they will no longer be controlled or mistreated. With a bold and energetic anthem, they celebrate their rebellion, expressing their desire for freedom and justice. The song is an empowering, high-energy moment where the children take control of their own destiny, marking a turning point in their fight against the injustice they face.

ACT II

The Phantom Of the Opera—The Phantom Of the Opera

In the song *"The Phantom of the Opera"* from *The Phantom of the Opera*, Christine Daaé, the musical's heroine, experiences a powerful and eerie encounter with the Phantom. As she is in her dressing room, the Phantom appears to her in a dark, mysterious way, both seductive and threatening. He lures her into a world of his own creation beneath the opera house, where she is drawn to his intense, haunting presence. The song is a dramatic, thrilling duet between Christine and the Phantom, filled with emotion and tension, as he declares his obsession and desire for her. Christine, both frightened and captivated, is torn between her fear of the Phantom and her growing fascination with him. The song is iconic for its sweeping, dramatic orchestration and the interplay between Christine’s vulnerability and the Phantom’s obsession.

Stepsisters’ Lament—Cinderella

In the song *"Stepsisters' Lament"* from *Cinderella*, the two stepsisters, Anastasia and Drizella, express their jealousy and frustration after learning that Cinderella has caught the eye of the prince. The sisters sing about how they are frustrated by their own unattractiveness and the fact that Cinderella, whom they constantly belittle, has somehow won the prince's attention. The song is comedic and light-hearted, showcasing the sisters' vanity, entitlement, and inability to understand why they are not the ones chosen. Their exaggerated self-pity and envy add humor to their otherwise wicked characters.

Cruella De Vil—101 Dalmations

In the song *"Cruella De Vil"* from *101 Dalmatians*, the character sings about the villainous and flamboyant Cruella de Vil. The song humorously describes her evil nature and outrageous personality, painting her as a cruel, heartless woman with a dangerous obsession with fur coats—particularly those made from Dalmatian puppies. The lyrics highlight her sinister, villainous traits while contrasting them with her glamorous, eccentric appearance. The upbeat and catchy tune emphasizes her villainy in a playful, yet menacing way, making Cruella both a memorable and entertaining antagonist in the story.

Good Morning, Baltimore—Hairspray

In the song *"Good Morning Baltimore"* from *Hairspray*, the protagonist, Tracy Turnblad, joyfully sings about her love for her hometown of Baltimore. As she walks through the city, she celebrates its sights, sounds, and unique charm, expressing her excitement and optimism for the future. The song conveys Tracy's upbeat, confident personality as she dreams of a better life, including her desire to be part of a popular dance show. It's a lively, energetic anthem of self-expression, hope, and the joy of embracing who you are, no matter where you're from.

Miss Baltimore Crabs—Hairspray

In the song *"Miss Baltimore Crabs"* from *Hairspray*, the character Velma Von Tussle, a former beauty queen and the show's antagonist, sings about her obsession with winning and maintaining control over the Miss Hairspray competition. Velma is determined to ensure that her daughter, Amber, wins the title, and she will do whatever it takes to keep other contestants, especially Tracy Turnblad, from succeeding. The song is a villainous, self-serving anthem where Velma showcases her arrogance, manipulative nature, and disdain for those she perceives as inferior. It's a darkly comedic number that highlights Velma's obsession with status and her cutthroat attitude.

Reflection—Mulan

In the song *"Reflection"* from *Mulan*, the protagonist, Mulan, expresses her internal struggle with her identity and the pressure to meet societal expectations. As she looks at her reflection in the water, she feels disconnected from the image of the "perfect" woman that her family and society want her to be. Mulan longs to be true to herself and wishes she could show the world who she truly is, rather than pretending to be someone she's not. The song captures themes of self-acceptance, personal conflict, and the desire for authenticity. It is a poignant moment where Mulan grapples with her sense of self-worth and the expectations placed on her.

I Just Can’t Wait To Be King—Lion King

In the song *"I Just Can't Wait to Be King"* from *The Lion King*, young Simba eagerly expresses his excitement and confidence about one day becoming king of the Pride Lands. With a carefree and playful attitude, he imagines a world where he has all the power and freedom to rule, without any of the responsibilities or constraints. Simba's optimism is matched by his friend Nala, who joins in the fun, but the song also reflects his youthful naivety, not fully understanding the challenges and consequences that come with leadership. The upbeat, energetic tune captures Simba's youthful enthusiasm and desire for independence.

Edelweiss—The Sound of Music

In the song *"Edelweiss"* from *The Sound of Music*, Captain Georg von Trapp sings a heartfelt, patriotic tribute to the Edelweiss flower, a symbol of his homeland, Austria. The song reflects his love for his country and its natural beauty, as well as his deep emotional connection to it. As he sings, there is a sense of nostalgia and longing, as the song takes on a bittersweet tone, especially given the political climate of the time (leading up to the Anschluss, when Austria was annexed by Nazi Germany). The gentle, soothing melody and lyrics convey themes of love for one's homeland, innocence, and a sense of loss. It becomes a poignant moment in the musical, symbolizing both personal and national pride.

Tulsa, 1967—The Outsiders

In the song *"Tulsa 1967"* from *The Outsiders* musical, the character of Ponyboy Curtis reflects on the struggles and tensions between the Socs and the Greasers, two rival groups in 1960s Tulsa. The song captures Ponyboy's sense of confusion and frustration as he navigates the harsh realities of his life, the violence between the groups, and the deeper emotional struggles he faces. It speaks to the sense of longing for understanding and the desire for peace in a world filled with conflict. The song also highlights themes of youth, identity, and the social divide, all central to the story of *The Outsiders*.

The Whole Being Dead Thing—Beetlejuice, The Musical

In the song *"The Whole Being Dead Thing"* from *Beetlejuice: The Musical*, the character Beetlejuice, in his trademark irreverent style, sings about the absurdities and challenges of being dead. He explains to Lydia, a grieving teenager, what it's like to be part of the afterlife, highlighting the lack of physical sensation, the absence of care, and the general weirdness of death. The song is darkly comedic and upbeat, filled with Beetlejuice's cynical humor and quirky observations about death and the afterlife. It serves as both a humorous introduction to the world of the dead and a way for Beetlejuice to bond with Lydia, offering her a different perspective on death, all while maintaining his mischievous attitude.

That Beautiful Sound—Beetlejuice, The Musical

In the song *"That Beautiful Sound"* from *Beetlejuice: The Musical*, Lydia sings about the powerful, captivating sound of her own voice as she takes control of her life and desires. The song marks a key moment in Lydia’s character arc, where she becomes empowered and embraces the idea of making her own choices, free from the constraints of her grief and the expectations around her. As she sings, the sound of her voice transforms into a metaphor for personal freedom, and the lyrics reveal her growing confidence and determination to take charge of her own fate. It’s a bold, uplifting moment that highlights Lydia’s journey toward self-empowerment.

Go The Distance—Hercules

In the song *"Go the Distance"* from *Hercules*, the title character, Hercules, expresses his determination to prove himself worthy of being a true hero. As he embarks on his journey, he reflects on his feelings of being out of place and yearns to find his purpose and identity. The song is an anthem of perseverance and self-belief, as Hercules vows to overcome obstacles and go "the distance" to achieve greatness, no matter how difficult the path may be. It captures themes of ambition, self-discovery, and the pursuit of one’s destiny.

Defying Gravity—Wicked

In the song *"Defying Gravity"* from *Wicked*, Elphaba, the misunderstood and powerful witch, decides to embrace her true self and defy the oppressive forces around her. After a series of challenges and betrayals, she chooses to break free from the constraints placed on her by society and the Wizard of Oz. The song is a powerful anthem of self-empowerment, as Elphaba vows to rise above the expectations and judgments of others, soaring "defying gravity." It marks a pivotal moment in the musical, where Elphaba chooses to take control of her own fate, even if it means being labeled as a villain. The song is dramatic, emotional, and filled with defiance, symbolizing Elphaba’s liberation and courage.