IN Murrysville Spring 2026 | Page 33

THE ARTS IN ACTION
The Intermediate School Creativity Center came alive as Franklin Regional’ s fifth graders took the stage for Olympus, a lively and entertaining rock musical that blended ancient mythology with modern humor, on March 4 – 6. From the opening number to the final curtain call, students delivered a high-energy performance filled with catchy songs, clever storytelling, and plenty of laughout-loud moments. The production followed a group of bored Greek gods competing to prove their greatness, while a group of modern-day cousins unexpectedly find themselves swept into the mythic chaos during a hike to Olympus Overlook.
THE ARTS IN ACTION
5th Grade Presents OLYMPUS

Productions like Olympus reflect Franklin Regional School District’ s ongoing commitment to the arts as an essential part of a well-rounded education and whole child development. Regardless of age or grade, Franklin Regional encourages and provides the opportunity for all students to get involved whether that’ s through Fall and Spring plays and musicals, choir, band, dance, and more. Opportunities in music, theater, and creative performance allow students to build confidence, develop collaboration skills, and express themselves in meaningful ways. Investing in arts programming and providing spaces like the Creativity Center helps students showcase their talents and acts as a gathering space for the public to enjoy events such as Olympus. ranklin Regional FRANKLIN REGIONAL NEWS

High School Brings Shrek to Life
Athena Neuschwander( Teen Fiona), Harper Lacey( Fiona), and Lydia Cheyne( Young Fiona) perform on a student made set.
Shane Swensson portrayed Shrek, and Mia Evankovich acted as Fiona during a scene.
Miranda Hatfield( Blind Mouse), Ella Haritan( Blind Mouse), Prem Nadesan( Donkey), and Sophia Pozek( Blind Mouse) pose at the end of a dance scene.
Luca Bertucci portrays Lord Farquaad in Franklin Regional’ s 2026 production of Shrek the Musical.
Shea
Williamson( Dragon) and Isaac
Eaton
( Donkey) act along side the dragon animatronic.
The full cast of Franklin Regional’ s Shrek the Musical poses as a group.
Ogres. Outcasts. Ovation. That’ s what the cast and crew of Shrek the Musical brought audiences during their performances from February 26 through March 1. Audiences were treated to an energetic and entertaining performance that brought the familiar story of Shrek, Fiona, and Donkey to life through colorful sets, memorable songs, and dynamic performances. From the opening scene to the final bow, the cast delivered a production filled with humor, heart, and impressive musical talent, capturing the spirit of the well-known tale about embracing individuality and finding belonging.
This year’ s production featured animatronics of a dragon, student and staff developed sets, and a musical orchestra comprised of both community members and students. Performers, musicians, and crew members worked together to create a polished and engaging show, demonstrating the district’ s commitment to the 5Cs through strong collaboration, critical thinking in their stage presence, and communication of their artistic expression. With lively choreography, standout vocal performances, and detailed costumes and staging, the show reflected the many hours of preparation and teamwork that brought the story to life for audiences.
The Franklin Regional School District continues to foster creativity and inspire the next generation of performers, storytellers, and leaders.
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