Maren Ping, a junior at Newsome High School, has been part of Music Showcase for a year. Ping has participated in theatre since elementary school, and plans to continue through high school. 

 “It’s all a process that I live for and I have so much joy for it,” Ping said.

  According to Ping, her favorite part of Music Showcase is the process, from auditioning to receiving the cast list, and even spending over nine hours a day just to dance until the choreography is perfected.

   “My elementary school would put on a production every year, and sitting in the auditorium watching the production inspired me and just drove me further to want to do and enjoy it,” Ping said. 

   Ping has played numerous roles, from Ellie in “Freaky Friday” to Medda Larkin in “Newsies.” Ping’s favorite show she has performed at Music Showcase is “Newsies: The Musical.” “Newsies” was presented by the Florida Academy of Performing Arts at the Hillsborough County State Fairgrounds. During rehearsal, cast members would rehearse every day from 9 a.m-5 p.m.

  “It was very draining but at the same time so much fun. Overall, the production was perfect,” Ping said, “I remember sitting down and watching the fifth graders put on a production of “The Little Mermaid.” The kid who played Flounder was amazing. Ever since I saw them perform, I knew that was what I wanted to do.” 

   Outside of Music Showcase and school, Ping enjoys hanging out with kids she has met from theatre. She also enjoys cooking and baking. 

   “The real question is what theatre hasn’t taught me, it’s taught me friendships and just everything that’s made me who I am today,” Ping said. 

   Ping will be performing in “Beauty and the Beast: The Musical” from Dec. 2-5 and Dec. 10-12. Auditions for the show were held on Aug. 16. She has received a callback for Mrs. Potts and Babette for the musical.