Hampton Middle School students gear up for fall musical

“The Above Average Middle School Awards Show” is the fall musical being presented by Hampton Middle School students.

Performances are set 7 p.m. Dec. 3 and 4 and 1 p.m. Dec. 4. All shows are at the HMS auditorium, 4589 School Drive, Allison Park.

Originally slated for Nov. 18-20, the show was pushed back two weeks after a small electrical fire occurred in the Hampton Middle School auditorium on Nov. 16. There was no damage to the stage or the seating areas; however, a few middle school musical props were compromised.

“Our actors, crew, and orchestra pit members were resilient and have stepped up to overcome the challenges,” said Director Greg Shumaker. “Our talented group of students are looking forward to performing this musical that they have worked so hard on putting together for the community.”

This year’s show is a compilation of the last 16 years of HMS musicals in the form of an awards show. Categories include Best Non-Human song, Funniest Stage Moment, Best Villain, Best Fancy Feet, Best Ensemble, Best Buddy Song, Best Princess, Most Dramatic Song and several other surprises.

There are about 90 sixth, seventh and eighth graders who comprise the cast, crew and orchestra pit.

“Our eighth grade actors have really shined throughout this process and have shown leadership to help the younger students,” Shumaker said. “They’ve been amazing.”

Tickets will be available at the door by paying with cash or check. General admission is $9 for adults and $8 for students. The “reserved section” in the center of the HMS auditorium is 10 for adults and $9 for students. Since this is a school-sponsored event, masks are required for all participants.