December 2014
Moon Valley's Advanced
Theatre Class, Stagecraft CTE and Advanced Culinary Class worked together to
create a dinner theatre on December 9th. It was the 3rd
dinner theatre on which Chef Pernick and Mrs. Rasor have worked together.
Both teachers enjoy the challenge of putting together a cross curricular event
that mutually meets not only curriculum standards and outcomes, but is able to
satisfy an appreciative audience as well. The patrons entered the theatre
to see the stage transformed into a restaurant, with tables and decorations all
around. While seated under the stage lights, our guests enjoyed a
delicious meal and great entertainment. Chef and his students developed a
menu for the evening and worked towards preparing it. Some food is prepped ahead of time, but some
of the food is prepared in front of audience members, such as the main
entree. Mrs. Rasor's theatre class worked preparing scenes and musical
numbers to entertain the hungry crowd. The actors also served as the wait
staff for the patrons as well. The stagecraft class had been busy
dressing the stage - with painted flats, decorated tables and colored lights.
This year's theme is
"Disney Dinner," with costumed students performing selections from
various Disney shows. Aladdin, Jasmine, Scar, Mulan and Cinderella are a
few of the Disney characters waiting on tables that evening. The audience
was surrounded by large painted silhouetted images of such favorites as the
Beast, Jafar and Maleficent while seated at decorated tables that are
reminiscent of Tarzan's jungle or "Under the Sea," to name a few
motifs. Meanwhile, culinary students perfected their spaghetti sauce ala'
Lady and the Tramp's favorite shared meal. It was a grand evening for all
when not only the applause rang out for the performers, but also the excellent
student chefs as well. The profit made during the dinner show goes
back into the accounts of both programs. However, both teachers agree the
experience is well worth the effort and price. Bravo to theatre and
culinary arts for a good show!