Rev. James D. Conley, D.D., S.T.L. | Diocese of Lincoln website

The Pius Players theater department at Pius X High School in Lincoln is set to present Disney's "Frozen Jr." at the end of June. This production will mark the final performance in the school's current Learning and Performing Arts Center (LPAC).

The show is being put together through a special arrangement with Music Theater International, allowing Pius Players to collaborate with current freshmen and junior high students from the Lincoln Diocese. Over three weeks, these students will prepare and present three performances for the community.

Co-director Sarah Moje highlighted the significance of this collaboration, stating, “It’s a wonderful opportunity for younger students to work with our current Pius performers.” She added that it helps foster relationships that continue as junior high students transition into Pius X.

Kennedy McCarville, a student playing Anna in "Frozen Jr.," echoed these sentiments by sharing her own positive experience transitioning into Pius Players after participating in last summer's production of "Godspell."

The cast includes Samuel Brandl as Hans, Kennedy McCarville as Anna, Ashlan Doering as Olaf, Sydney Wesley as Elsa, and Aidan Shasserre as Kristoff. The performances are scheduled for June 27-29 at Pius X High School.

Following the final performance on June 29, demolition and construction will commence on a new performing arts facility. This new space will feature an updated mainstage theater complete with modern amenities like a fly system for curtains and backdrops.

Aidan Shasserre expressed mixed feelings about performing in the LPAC one last time but looked forward to opening the new facility with his fellow performers. “Being a part of Pius Players has given me the opportunity to witness true, genuine love,” he said.

Co-director Mary Odgaard expressed gratitude towards those who contributed to making the new facility possible. She emphasized that their mission is to "Reclaim the Arts" for higher purposes while providing professional-level opportunities for their students.

"Frozen Jr." will run from Friday, June 27 through Sunday, June 29. Tickets are available at $5 each.