Thomas Earle Stars in Jackson Academy's "PETER PAN: A MUSICAL ADVENTURE"
Eastover resident and 17-year-old Jackson Academy senior, Thomas Earl, is our Featured Young Achiever this month, and we are thrilled to share with you his talent displayed through the Jackson Academy Band, Showchoir, and Theatre as well as leading JA's Chapel Worship Team. Thomas is the son of Mallie Earl and Mark Earl and has two siblings, Charlie and Elle Earl. The Earls live on Sandridge Drive, and Thomas told Stroll Eastover, "I love how friendly all the residents and neighbors are and how safe Eastover feels all the time."
Thomas participates in many areas of music and performance and recently shared a little about his recent accomplishments at Jackson Academy...
Jackson Academy Band members recently participated in the MAIS Bandmasters Honor Band Clinic held over several days at Hinds Community College. During this clinic, independent schools in Mississippi send their best and brightest to represent their school. Students auditioned for chairs in three bands led by college and high school clinicians. They learned and rehearsed various musical selections once placed in Bronze, Silver, or Gold bands. Each band presented a concert on Saturday at noon in the Cain-Cochran Auditorium. Thomas, a member of the Jackson Academy Band, was selected as second chair on tuba in the Gold Band!
Another highlight of Thomas's high school career was his recent role in Jackson Academy's production of "Peter Pan: A Musical Adventure."The show drew the curtain on its third and final performance at Jackson Academy's 800-seat Performing Arts Center last semester. The 1,800+ audience members saw a fabulous show featuring 46 performers. Behind the scenes, about a dozen crew members amplified the story by managing extensive sets and staging.
One of the crew's most dramatic tasks was orchestrating the flying entrance of Peter Pan, played by Thomas Earl. Earl, along with students portraying the Darling family children and those serving as crew members, received special training to use the fly system in Jackson Academy's 800-seat Performing Arts Center auditorium. A flight director from ZFX Flying Effects provided instruction in early October.
In addition to this type of professional-level skills training, acting experiences provide learning opportunities for students. Students receive vocal and dance training and learn about blocking, projection, set construction, and characterization. Students regularly practice these skills during the weeks leading up to the show. They build confidence, learn teamwork, develop problem-solving skills, and overcome fears.
During the week of Peter Pan, Thomas Earl, along with other cast members of Peter Pan, greeted students arriving during JA carpool (pictured) which was a highlight for all of the young students!
Thank you, Thomas, for sharing your talent and passion with our readers! We know you have exciting, bright things ahead for you! Stroll Eastover looks forward to following along!