On February 13 and 16, 2025, elementary students from grades 3-5 took to the stage to perform the first-ever production of On the Ark, produced by Stuart Rosenthal, directed by Diana Quiroz, and written by our very own Dr. Michel Klein. Dr. Klein explained that the play considered the story of Noah’s Ark from the perspective of the animals with a new plot of gossip and bonds on board, representing the connections that students build here at Scheck Hillel. The production team has done a wonderful job of portraying the director’s goals, and hopes the audience has been lured in by this fascinating point of view.
On the Ark has many valuable themes and lessons to be learned, the most significant one being that no matter how big or small a challenge is, it will always be better to face it with a friend by your side. Moreover, the next time you face a problem you don’t know how to solve, ask a friend, an acquaintance, or a teacher for help, because going through life with others will always be easier and more fun!
Klein further noted that he began to imagine the ark as if it were a school—the animals in the story went through challenges similar to those of elementary school children. Throughout the show, the five main characters, Chameleon, Raven, Dove, Lion, and Phoenix, all face different hardships on the ark. The Chameleon must overcome his overwhelming desire to fit in with the rest of society. The Lion must learn to open up and avoid his usual cold and unwelcoming demeanor, while the Phoenix is tasked with convincing the animals to board the Ark and serving as their leader once on the boat. Lastly, the Raven and Dove must work through their strained relationship and learn to trust and care for one another again.
In anticipation of the performance, students attended a number of rehearsals where they practiced their lines, learned valuable lessons surrounding theater etiquette, and played fun games to engage their attention. For Meghan Knight, the show’s rehearsal manager, “joking around with them [the kids]” was her favorite rehearsal memory. Knight also mentions that “Being their fun parent after the play,” was enjoyable, and felt as though she had fulfilled the purpose of her job. She also hopes that our young actors are proud of what they accomplished.
Aside from our theater staff, our actors also walked away with important takeaways to implement in their daily lives. Third-grader, Elly Benchetrit, stated that she learned how to be more confident, whereas Daniella Bucholtz from fourth grade observed the importance of teamwork and commitment. Jackie Mizrahi, fourth grade, gained an understanding about how different actors contribute to the whole of the play, as well as of the importance of professionalism. Lastly, third-grader, Amanda Sandoval, reported that the experience encouraged her to speak in a loud, confident manner.
