COLUMBUS, Ohio — Pickerington Community Theatre returns to the stage this weekend with a children's musical based on a beloved book series by author Barbara Park.
"[Junie B. Jones] is first in the books a kindergartner and then eventually first grader who has tons of adventures in all of her childhood crazy glory," explained Pamela Villarreal, director of PCT's production of "Junie B. Jones, Jr."
The musical version of the story adapts several of the books into one story and follows Junie B. Jones as she navigates the first day of first grade, new friends, a new classroom and even new glasses.
"I think she's a really fun, spunky, a lot of attitude character," described Lina Bachmann who plays the titular role.
After getting the part, Bachmann threw herself into researching the role by binging the books.
"I think it's fun to see it come together and it's just a really fun role to play," Bachmann said.
According to Villarreal, the production has 32 children on stage ranging in ages from six to 17.
"They are absolutely fantastic,' raved Villarreal of her young cast.
She said that they would regularly go above and beyond to develop their characters including two actors who learned how to juggle for their roles.
"My dad has been teaching me [how to juggle]," said Bachmann. "I'm feeling really excited about it."
Pickerington Community Theatre's production of "Junie B. Jones, Jr." runs through March 17. For showtimes and ticket information, just visit their website.