In January 2025, The Belair-Edison School applied for and was awarded a Heart of the School Fund grant to support its spring production of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Jr. Over 60 students in grades 4–8 auditioned for roles, with more than 40 participating as cast members, stage crew, or hosts. The grant helped provide costumes, scenery, professional audio equipment, and show licensing—resources that transformed the musical into an unforgettable experience for students and families alike.
Reflecting on the power of musical theater, Director Larin Walker shared:
“Musical theater has a profound impact on a scholar's development, fostering growth that extends far beyond the stage. By combining music, movement, and storytelling, it nurtures creativity, builds confidence, and strengthens communication skills. Scholars learn the value of discipline and teamwork as they collaborate toward a shared artistic vision, while also developing empathy by stepping into the lives and emotions of diverse characters. Ultimately, participation in musical theater empowers young people to discover their voices, express themselves authentically, and carry vital skills—such as leadership, collaboration, and problem-solving—into every area of their lives.
“Directing Beauty and the Beast Jr. brought me much delight…the experience was a blast,” Walker added.”
Music Director Rosemarie Iglopas-Tabungar reflected on the impact of the production on student growth and community spirit:
“Serving as one of the musical directors for our school’s production was one of my most rewarding experiences as an educator! From the very beginning, I was inspired by the enthusiasm of the students, many of whom were stepping into musical theater for the first time. Watching them grow in confidence—whether they were singing solos, harmonizing in the ensemble, or learning how to project their voices—was truly fulfilling. Beyond the music itself, what made this experience so positive was the sense of community it built. I saw shy students blossom, natural leaders emerge, and friendships deepen. Parents and teachers also rallied behind the cast and crew, which created a wonderful support system and school spirit.”
Elementary Music and Acting Director Briona Williams echoed this sentiment:
“Guiding little voices and big imaginations through Beauty and the Beast Jr. reminded me that every child holds a bit of magic worth bringing to the stage.”
The production also carried a unique cultural touch. Thanks to the grant, directors incorporated Afro-centric design elements into costumes, giving beloved characters a visually stunning and meaningful representation. Cast t-shirts were also created as keepsakes, ensuring students, staff, and volunteers carried a memento of their hard work.
“The students not only performed beautifully, but they also owned the stage with confidence and joy,” Iglopas-Tabungar said. “It gave our scholars memories they will carry for a lifetime.”
The Beauty and the Beast Jr. spring musical was an overwhelming success—one that highlighted not just the artistic talents of Belair Edison scholars, but also the transformative role the arts play in building confidence, resilience, and community.
Six times a year, the Heart of the School Fund provides grants to Baltimore City Public School principals to support projects that enhance their school buildings, their students’ learning, and their staff’s growth. To read about additional Heart of the School Fund grants, click here.
