(RAHWAY, NJ) -- Curtain up! Theatrical Artist's Prep (TAP) and the Union County Performing Arts Center (UCPAC) are thrilled to present two fully designed youth productions, Junie B. Jones The Musical Jr.  and Mean Girls Jr. this weekend (July 26-27, 2024) at Hamilton Stage in Rahway.

These vibrant productions showcase the incredible talent of 54 young performers from Union County and the surrounding area. The performances are the culmination of a 4 week summer musical theater intensive under the instruction of TAP and is sponsored in part by the Union County Board of County Commissioners. For the second consecutive year, this sponsorship has provided 21 young Union County residents with full-ride scholarships, making this remarkable opportunity accessible to all. Their commitment to supporting youth activities in the arts is deeply rooted in the belief that it not only enriches personal growth but also contributes significantly to Union County's evolution as a community with a diverse economy. This theater initiative is brought to fruition for the second year thanks  to the Office of Open Space and Recreation & Historic Preservation Trust Fund.

Directed by Beth Kasper, Music Direction by Emalina Thompson, Choreography by Samantha Simpon, and Scenic and Lighting Design by James Mosser,  these productions promise a joyful experience. Featuring a cast of 29 actors ages 8-12, “Junie B. Jones The Musical JR. is a heartwarming show which follows a tremendously loveable girl as she learns ‘growing up is scary, but it’s also kinda fun.’ There is a lot of humor in the strong and sassy way in which Junie B. addresses intimidating things like making new friends, finding her role, and taking risks. And ultimately she leaves each of us with an important reminder, ‘never take for granted how special you are,’” says Drew Cohen, president of Music Theatre International.

“Mean Girls JR. is a hilarious and ‘totally fetch’ show with some very important lessons about friendship, authenticity, and accountability. Throughout the musical, we watch characters journey from changing parts of themselves in order to belong, to living as the unique and brave shining stars that they are,” says Cohen. Isabella Ovalles (Rahway, NJ) who plays the role of Cady agrees, “This could not be a more perfect production to showcase what I love most about TAP. The message both the show and TAP bring to the audience and their campers is to be yourself fearlessly.” The production is flawlessly performed by 25 actors, ages 12-18.

“We pride ourselves on our commitment to quality youth productions and empowering students with hands-on theater experience,” says TAP owner, Samantha Simpson. “These young actors have risen to the occasion and what they have accomplished in just 4 short weeks is to be applauded,” she adds. 11 year old Sophia Rivas (Elizabeth, NJ) who plays the title role, Junie B.  states, “The students are very involved, I am so grateful to express my talents on the stage.”

Junie B. Jones The Musical Jr. has productions on Friday, July 26 at 3:00pm and Saturday, July 27 at 3:00pm. Mean Girls Jr. takes place Friday, July 26 at 7:00pm and Saturday, July 27 at 7:00pm. Hamilton Stage is located at 360 Hamilton Street in Rahway, New Jersey.

Don’t miss this chance to support local youth talent and enjoy a weekend of fantastic entertainment. Tickets are available now at https://ucpac.org/events/.

Mean Girls Jr. and Junie B. Jones The Musical JR. is presented through special arrangement with and all authorized materials are supplied by Music Theatre International 421 West 54th Street, New York, NY, (212) 541-4684.

Theatrical Artist's Prep, located in Scotch Plains, is committed to providing a safe and nurturing environment where students are encouraged to create and express themselves freely. They trust that whether you have dreams of pursuing a professional career in the arts or you're simply seeking a fun, social outlet, Theatrical Artist's Prep is the perfect place to further develop your interest in the performing arts.