Fall rehearsals for theatre’s production of Lion King are in full swing after auditions last week. Senior Omar Almeida will play young Simba and Billy Duncan the adult Simba. Freshman Raegyn Dennix will play young Nala with senior Ashley White stepping in as older Nala.

“This is my first musical,” Dennix said. “I could not be happier to play young Nala.”

The group is also choosing a leadership team this week and voting for officer.

“I think I would be a good officer because I’ve been in theater since I was a freshman,” Omar said. “I am a very good leader.”

Other lead roles include junior Alani Jones as Rafiki, junior Lindsey Hardin as Scar, freshman Tristan Cole as Mufasa, sophomore Emma Cocking as Zazu, sophomore Nicollette Arabie as Pumba and freshman Hunter Fulmer as Timon. Cocking said she is excited about her part and hopeful about officer elections as well.

“I would be a good officer because I am organized,” Cocking said. “I’m super passionate about theater and I would put in the time and effort.”

Behind the scenes, tech has been working on costumes and set design. Students have been sketching ideas for Pride Rock and other major pieces.

“For Pride Rock we are going to layer platforms and cover them with foam,” senior John Cocking said. “Scar’s Cave is next on our list.”

The cast has been working on ensembles for the opening scene, Circle of Life, and the second scene, Scar’s Cave.

“We can’t wait to see how it turns out,” sophomore Peyton West, who is on cast and also works in tech, said. “I really think everybody has been working really hard.”

With community performance dates set for early December, the group knows they have a lot of work to do, but are excited about how well things are going so far.

“I think this play will be the best play the high school has ever put on,” freshman Ashtyn Barzda said. “I can’t wait to see how far the ensemble and cast has come in December on opening night.”