OLD MILL ELEMENTARY — A dream years in the making is becoming a reality for students at Old Mill Elementary.
For the past several years, Old Mill’s performing arts program has flourished under the leadership of Visual and Performing Arts teacher Leslie Biglari. Through countless hours of planning, rehearsals, set design, and student coaching, Mrs. Biglari transformed the school’s annual Nutcracker production into a beloved tradition that showcased the talents of hundreds of students and brought the school community together each holiday season.
As the program grew, so did a dream.
For years, Mrs. Biglari envisioned bringing a Disney musical to the Old Mill stage. Knowing the significant commitment required, she began assembling a team of staff members who shared her passion for creating meaningful performing arts experiences for students. Together, they worked through a competitive application process for Disney’s Musicals in Schools program, sharing their vision for expanding opportunities for elementary students through theater.
The Old Mill production team includes Leslie Biglari, Director; Megan Boston, Choreographer; Lauren Rittman, Music Director; Michelle Mason, Stage Director; Kaylee Compton, Production Manager; and Principal Brittany Joiner, Producer.
Their efforts paid off.
After completing the written application and finalist video submission process, Old Mill Elementary was selected from hundreds of applicants nationwide to participate in Disney’s Musicals in Schools program, a Disney Theatrical Group initiative designed to help public elementary schools build sustainable musical theater programs. Through the program, selected schools receive training, resources, performance materials, and support to bring high-quality musical theater experiences to students.
“Mrs. Biglari and this team have poured their hearts into building a performing arts program that gives students opportunities to shine,” said Principal Brittany Joiner. “This recognition is a testament to their hard work, creativity, and commitment to our students. They dreamed big, put in the work, and now our students will benefit from an incredible opportunity.”
While the selection itself was exciting, the team wanted students to help shape what came next.
After receiving the news, Old Mill students were invited to vote on which Disney production they would like to see brought to life on their stage. Following the student vote, one title rose to the top.
The winner was Disney’s Aladdin KIDS.
Beginning this fall, students will have the opportunity to audition for the production and become part of Old Mill’s newest performing arts tradition.
For Mrs. Biglari, the opportunity represents the next chapter in a journey that began years ago with a vision of what could be possible for students.
While the Nutcracker will always hold a special place in Old Mill’s history, the transition to Aladdin KIDS represents an exciting evolution of a program that continues to grow because of the dedication of educators who believe in the power of the arts.
Disney’s Musicals in Schools program was created to help public schools establish lasting theater programs while developing student confidence, creativity, collaboration, communication, and leadership skills. The opportunity aligns closely with Old Mill’s commitment to providing authentic learning experiences that allow students to discover and develop their unique talents.
“This is about much more than putting on a show,” Joiner said. “It’s about giving students a place to belong, helping them discover their gifts, and creating memories they will carry with them long after they leave Old Mill.”
Audition information and additional details for Disney’s Aladdin KIDS will be announced this fall as Old Mill prepares to bring a whole new world of possibilities to its stage.