Youth musical puts on ‘Starlight, Starbright’

     Patti Larson, a student and instructor at UW-Waukesha, directed a children's musical called, "Starlight Starbright," on April 1. Over a period of 10 weeks, Larson worked with 12 girls, grades K-5, teaching them to read basic music and memorizing vocal songs.

     Larson has been a student at UW-Waukesha for two years and has been involved with children's music for 10 years at places such as: Waukesha Bible Church, Elmbrook Church, UW-Milwaukee, and UW-Waukesha.  Also, this year, Larson has been promoted by Susan Adams, director of continuing education, to be the children's musical director and to oversee all the children's musical programs at UW-Waukesha.

     Larson has a great passion for working with children as she said: "Children in music are a natural combination. We create magic."

     The children and their parents also enjoy this experience. Nine-year-old Lilli Julius loves being a part of the children's musical program. Her father, Richard Julius said that Lilli "loves coming," and "loves the teacher."

     Lilli has been a part of this program for two years and is planning on coming back next year. "Whatever makes Lilli happy," said her father.

     The show, "Starlight Starbright," that took place on April 1 was performed with smiles and excitement from the children. It was performed in the Hub, which was decorated with white lights and a black backdrop with golden stars. The children sang well-known songs such as: "There's No Business Like Show Business," "Green Eggs and Ham," and "When You Wish Upon a Star." The show was excellent and over 50 people attended.

     Larson began a new program the following morning titled "Happiness is." She also plans to run three summer musical camps in the month of June.  These camps will run five days a week with performances on Friday.