“Moana Jr” transports audiences to the enchanting world of the South Pacific, where the courageous young heroine Moana embarks on an epic journey of self-discovery and adventure. Raised on the tranquil island of Motunui, Moana is drawn to the call of the sea, yearning to explore what lies beyond the horizon. The musical follows Moana as she defies tradition and sets sail beyond the safety of her reef to save her island community from a mysterious darkness that threatens their way of life.
Moana is a young woman with a fiery sense of determination and an unwavering spirit, as played by eighth grade, Milan Mason. Mason was elated when she initially saw the cast list because this is her first musical. She is having fun playing her character as she is fun and courageous and feels that “playing her might make me more strong and courageous.” Mason feels that her family and friends are who she has to thank for earning this part as she “wouldn’t have auditioned If it wasn’t for my family and friends pushing her.”
Moana’s days are filled with coconuts and sun rays as she and her people peacefully live out their routine lives. However, her picturesque life is threatened when a dark force begins to engulf her island home, suffocating the paradise and leaving her people in jeopardy. Determined to save her community and restore harmony to the world, Moana embarks on a daring quest, guided by the support of the ocean itself.
Amidst her quest to find the legendary demigod Maui, Moana encounters a number of obstacles that challenge her courage and determination. From facing the eccentric sea turtle Tamatoa to battling mischievous Kakamora pirates, Moana perseveres.
Along the way, she forms an unlikely partnership with Maui, the charismatic and mischievous shapeshifter who has his own afflictions to resolve. Maui is portrayed by eighth grade, Nicolle Urrea who was confident in her ability to acquire the role. Since Maui has traditionally been depicted has a male, Urrea “finds it hard to sing in a lower octave than I normally do.” Despite the challenged, she is enjoying herself and “glad that I got to play this part for my eighth-grade year. She is excited for what is to come as she has been doing theater for all of middle school and plans on continuing her passion into her high school career.
Despite their differences, Moana and Maui must learn to work together as they face off against the malevolent forces that threaten to destroy the world. As Moana and Maui push closer to their ultimate goal, they discover that true heroism lies in the courage to be faithful to one’s heart and the willingness to sacrifice for the greater good.
Filled with a rollercoaster of emotions from heartwarming moments to thrilling action sequences, and unforgettable songs that capture the spirit of Polynesian culture, “Moana Jr” is an unforgettable tale that celebrates the power of hope, friendship, and the beauty of embracing one’s own uniqueness.
Performances will be Thursday, April 25, Friday, April 26, and Saturday, April 27 at 7:00 PM with a special matinee show on Saturday at 2:00 PM.
Tickets are $7 for students, $10 for adults, and can be purchased at https://cscsfinearts.ludus.com/index.php