Published for the Arts Based School Community
April 9, 2026
How We Do It and Why
By Mary Siebert, Founding Arts Director, retired
“The human soul can always use a new tradition. Sometimes we require them.”
― Pat Conroy,
Few productions capture the imagination and spirit of young performers like Disney’s The Lion King Jr. With its powerful themes of identity, community, and the circle of life, this beloved show has become a favorite on school stages across the country. Its vibrant music, striking visuals, and timeless story offer students a rich, meaningful theatrical experience that’s both entertaining and transformative. We’ve discovered that The Lion King Jr. has become a landmark production and tradition for our 8th graders. They’ve known the music, the characters, and the story since childhood. It draws out students who have never performed a leading role before and builds a strong sense of unity and ensemble.
Every year our production team works to provide an immersive performance experience for students. Visiting choreographer Thao Nguyen brings fresh, energetic movement to engage students by adding dynamic layers to iconic numbers like “Hakuna Matata” and “Circle of Life.” Elizabeth Gledhill, our art teacher, created the stunning visuals for our set and this year rebuilt many of the elaborate headpieces, masks, and props. Director Jordan Brown and music director Chris Reichmeier report that this year’s 8th graders are focused, dedicated, and delivering remarkable work. For some, the biggest challenge is simply staying in the game amid busy school days. For others, it’s a chance to stretch their budding artistic identities and discover new talents. For everyone, it’s a moment of connection, creativity, and pride.
We can’t wait to see what magic this group of students brings to the stage tonight with their heartfelt and spirited performance of The Lion King Jr..
Disney’s The Lion King Jr. will be performed tonight by the entire ABS 8th grade
Where: First Presbyterian Church Worship Center, 200 N. Cherry Street, downtown W-S
When: Thursday, April 23, 7:00 p.m.
Cost: Free, but we welcome your donation to cover theater costs.
Parking: available on the south side of 2nd Street across from the theater, between Marshall and Cherry. There are parking decks across the street on Cherry, as well.
Calling All Artists…
“100 for 100” is one element of our Spring Fundraiser Community Creates! We ask 100 local artists to each create an original work of art on the provided 8x10 canvas. The only guidance being the idea of “community”. Each artist is encouraged to explore the theme in any way they are inspired.
On May 2, 2026 each of our 100 (unsigned) canvases will be displayed at the Arts Based School Community Creates! Fundraising event. ABS is proud to provide affordable, accessible original works of art to the Winston-Salem community while raising $10,000 for the school. All works should be signed and dated only on the backs of the canvas. Patrons will purchase pieces based on their connection to the work and not the perceived value of the artist.
All canvases must be completed and returned to ABS by post or in person no later than
April 24, 2026
If you know of a local artist (or are one yourself) who would like to participate, please pick up 8 x 10 canvas in the school’s front office.
Got tickets? Community Creates!- May 2, 7-11pm
Join us for Community Creates! It’s a fun-filled evening with delicious food, great margaritas from Thirsty Buffalo, friends and some outstanding artwork! All proceeds from the event support our Artist-in-Residence program (think Mr. Bill, Mr. Bob, Diana Greene, Thao Nguyen and many others!). Tickets are $60/single or 2 for $100 and will be available for purchase now at communitycreates.org - Saturday, May 2nd from 7pm–11pm!
Want to get involved?
Become a Sponsor – Advertise for your company or business… Sponsorship Package info
Submit Artwork or Volunteer – Contact Robin Hollis ([email protected])
If you are interested in volunteering for Community Creates, please complete this form.
ABS 2026 Summer Camps -Time is Running Out!
May 8th is the deadline to sign up and pay for ABS Summer Camps! Click here for the flyer to preview all of our camps, and click the dates above the camp to register! This year we are offering before camp care from 7:45-9:00 for an additional childcare fee. Read the FAQ at the bottom of the flyer for more information and email Ashley Tate at [email protected] with any questions.
Camp Spotlight: Winston-Salem Soccer Stars Camp with Mr. Calum (1st-4th)
Does your child love playing, talking, and learning about soccer? In this summer camp we will be going over current and former World Cup games, watching highlights of the previous days matches, and learning/ playing lots of soccer from the tactical and physical side! Whether you play all the time or you’ve never kicked a ball this is the camp for you!
Lost & Found
Please check lost and found for items that are anxiously awaiting their return to your student. Any items not claimed by next Friday, April 16 will be donated. Pro Tip: Write your child’s name on the tag of jacket so we can help them find their way home.
Parent Council Notes:
Find opportunities for Pizza Friday, Teacher Appreciation, Car Line, and log miscellaneous or classroom volunteer hours.
Teacher Appreciation Luncheon
Our Parent Council is excited to host a special Teacher Appreciation Luncheon during Teacher Appreciation Week to celebrate the incredible dedication of our entire staff—including teachers, administration, specials, EC staff, custodial staff, and bus drivers—at both campuses.
The luncheon will take place on Wednesday, May 6, with our North Campus celebration on Thursday, May 7. Staff members will be able to select from a variety of delicious options provided by Apple Spice Catering.
If you would like to sponsor lunch for one teacher or staff member, please sign up for a slot using the link below and send $15 via Venmo to @artsbasedschool. Your support helps make this event a meaningful way to show appreciation for the many people who care for and support our students each day. We have raised almost $400 so far, we welcome additional contributions!
Parents can sign up and donate here:
Next Meeting:
Friday, April 17th at North Campus Café and on Zoom
Submit Your Questions for Parent Council here
Nominations are open for the 2026–2027 ABS Parent Council!
Parent Council meets monthly (alternating times and locations) plus a monthly lunch planning meeting. All positions are open for nomination and voting, even where current members are continuing. We could especially use nominations for the following positions:
- Teacher Appreciation (both campuses)
- Event Coordinator (North Campus - Fall Fest Coordinator)
- Book Fair Coordinator (South)
- Volunteer Coordinator (South)
Interested in a role or want to nominate someone? We'd love to have you involved - we have not received any nominations so far, and welcome any interest!
Around Town…
Everyone is welcome at the Piedmont Earth Day Fair on April 18th from 10AM-4PM at the Winston-Salem Fairgrounds! Enjoy great food and music, activities for adults and kids, and 120+ earth-friendly exhibitors.
Ways to get involved and learn more about ABS:
- Follow us on Social Media
- Catch up on Thursday Notes you may have missed
- Explore the ABS website
- Make sure we have best contact information so that you receive all communications