Flossmoor School D161 Students Shine In Inaugural Summer Theater Production Of 'We Are Monsters'

FLOSSMOOR, IL — Flossmoor School District 161 students took center stage this summer as part of the district’s first-ever Summer Theater Program, bringing the musical theater production of We Are Monsters to life for an enthusiastic standing-room-only crowd on Wednesday, July 15, at the Flossmoor Community Church Community House.

The inaugural Summer Theater Program provided students across SD 161 with the opportunity to come together, explore their creativity, and experience the excitement of performing on stage. Nearly 30 student performers from throughout the district made up the cast, creating a memorable production filled with laughter, teamwork, and heart.

With only 12 rehearsals to prepare, the students worked diligently to memorize lines, learn choreography, develop characters, and build confidence as performers. Their dedication resulted in a production that was laugh-out-loud funny, with sweet and touching moments woven throughout the performance.

The program was open to students across Flossmoor School District 161, creating a unique opportunity for children from different schools and grade levels to collaborate, form new friendships, and perform together as one ensemble.

“This production would not have been possible without the incredible dedication and guidance of directors Ms. Jean Davis and Mr. Daniel Burke,” said Amabel Crawford, Director of Learning and Instruction. “Their creativity, encouragement, and commitment helped students discover their confidence and bring this musical to life.”

Summer Academy Principal and Parker Junior High Assistant Principal Mrs. Nora Dandurand watched the students’ progress throughout the program and knew something special was happening from the very beginning.

“From my office, I could hear the students practicing and preparing, and I knew it was going to be an all-star production- we’ve had the songs playing in our heads all summer!” said Mrs. Dandurand. “The excitement, teamwork, and talent coming from the rehearsal space showed just how much effort the students were putting into creating something special.”

Flossmoor School District 161 is proud to celebrate the success of its first Summer Theater Program and the directors and students who brought We Are Monsters to the stage. The district looks forward to continuing opportunities that inspire students to discover new talents, build confidence, and share their creativity with the community.