Francine Maigue To Direct Local Talent In Disney's MOANA JR At San Diego Junior Theatre

San Diego Junior Theatre, the nation's longest-running youth theatre program, announces the premiere of DISNEY'S MOANA JR, directed and choreographed by Junior Theatre Alumna Francine Maigue. The special pilot production is a partnership with Music Theatre International and Disney Theatrical Group and showcases San Diego performers, musicians and technicians all ranging in age from 8 to 18. MOANA runs March 1-17 at Balboa Park's historic Casa del Prado Theatre. San Diego Junior Theatre is celebrating its 71st season empowering children of all ages, abilities and backgrounds through innovative, engaging and inclusive high-quality theater education and productions.

Director Francine Maigue shared "Moana not only illustrates one young leader's journey, but the story of a united, resourceful village. More than ever, I believe that's a powerful and relevant metaphor for our youth and our community. I'm thrilled and grateful to return to Junior Theatre, an organization that instilled in me important skills that I still use today, both on stage and off."

DISNEY'S MOANA JR. tells the story of an adventurous teenager who sails out on a daring mission to save her people. Along her journey, Moana meets the once-mighty demigod Maui, who helps guide her on her quest to become a master wayfinder.

Special Performances!

Pajama Night - Friday, March 8, 7p.m. A favorite community tradition! Adults and children are encouraged to get cozy and enjoy this performance in the comfort of their pajamas. Children attending in pajamas will leave with a special gift, and the whole family will be back home by bedtime!

Sensory-Friendly Performance - Saturday, March 9, 11am. This performance is designed to create a theatre experience that is welcoming to all families with children with autism or other disabilities that create sensory sensitivities. To reserve tickets for this free performance - contact the box office at 619-239-8355.

The cast of DISNEY'S MOANA JR. includes the following young San Diego performers:

Alexandra Adsit, Joy Aquino, Emma Atanacio, A'Verie Bell, Jewel Bendorf, Trinity Bendorf, Connor Bradshaw, Serafina Burns, Zara Butcher, Josette Candelaria, Riley Cox, Michael Davis, Penny Gage, Michelle Garcia, Koa Griffin, Arya Hanumara, Alexis Hernandez, Melanie Jimenez, Jameson Johnston, Taylor Jones, Waverley Macaulay, Ava Mendoza, Richie Lynn Nguyen, Maggie Pacleb, Kayla Pak, Ben Park, Isaiah Payne, Alofasau Porter, Skyelar Rice-Wilson, Natalia Robinson, Kaylen Rushing, Amparo Sagun, Thais Santana, Anton Schneiderwind, Stephen Smith, Braeden Steele, Holly Thorpe, Madeline Tulagan, Tori Worthington and Kiana Yassini

Francine Maigue, Director & Choreographer - Biography

Originally from the Philippines and raised in Chula Vista, Francine Maigue graduated with her master's degree in Management from Harvard University and her B.A. in World Arts & Cultures with a concentration in Dance Studies from UCLA.

In 2012, Francine was selected as an Inaugural Delegate to the Filipino American Young Leaders Program and honored with the Filipino American History Achievement Award in the areas of Arts, Humanitarianism and Community Service. In 2015, Francine received the BAYANI "Hero" Award and was named "One of the 100 Most Influential Filipina Women in the World." After a global search, the Filipina Women's Network proclaimed Francine "The Face of Global Pinay Power."

MOANA runs March 1-17 at the historic Casa del Prado Theatre in Balboa Park. Performances are Fridays at 7 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays at 2 p.m. Tickets range from $14 - $16. A special family night in which all audience members will receive a complimentary gift and may choose to wear pajamas will take place Friday, March 8th. Box Office: 619-239-8355 or www.juniortheatre.com

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