CineMagic experience helps youth learn confidence, make friends
Young actors receive expert vocal training and calming techniques
By Hailey Vieira Special to The Acorn

CineMagic is a musical, theatrical explosion of creativity that showcases the incredible performing talents of youth from first through eighth grades. The production is put together by the Pleasant Valley Education Foundation, allowing children in the Pleasant Valley School District to experience the arts. With the guidance of director Lindann Cheney and other parent and student volunteers, children have the opportunity to exhibit their gifts of song and dance in a stage performance in front of hundreds of friends, family and other audience members there to cheer them on.

From day one, there have been numerous auditions and rehearsals that have prepared the performers for their theatrical debut. The young actors get expert instruction on how to be comfortable speaking in front of crowds and using emotion to captivate the audience. They also receive vocal training from accomplished singers to make sure that their voices are in tune. Performers learn breathing techniques that will assist them in calming them down before going on stage and powerfully belting out songs.

The kids memorize dance routines for each number and practice them at every rehearsal. In this year's program there is a song that features sign language. Every single child gets loads of attention and advice on how to do their personal best in the show.

Socializing is also a big part of the CineMagic experience. The children get an opportunity to make friends who have similar interests. At rehearsals girls and boys talk, sing and share advice with one another. CineMagic also gives them something to do after school instead of getting into trouble. The performers are exercising and receiving entertainment in an amusing environment.

CineMagic will be at the Pacifica High School Performing Arts Center, 600 Gonzales Road, Oxnard. Show times and dates are 7 p.m. Fri., March 30 and 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. Sat., March 31.

For ticket prices and more information, call Tess Blankenship at 389-4321 or Peggy Smith at 388-3865 or visit pvef.homestead.com/ Cinemagic.html.

Vieira is an eighthgrade student at Monte Vista Middle School in Camarillo.